The devastating fire that erupted in a building in Kuwait’s South Mangaf district claimed the lives of several Indians, as reported by multiple sources. The fire, which originated in the downstairs kitchen early Wednesday morning, rapidly engulfed the building, trapping numerous individuals.
Kuwait’s deputy prime minister confirmed that 41 people perished in the incident, as reported by Reuters. Among the casualties, five Keralites were identified by Onmanorama.
Approximately 195 workers, hailing from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, were reported to be employed in the building, which is owned by the NBTC Group, headed by Malayalam businessman KG Abraham, according to Onmanorama.
#BREAKING: 53 people killed and 40 injured in a Mangaf building fire in Kuwait’s Southern Ahmadi Governorate. 5 among those killed are Indian. Indian Ambassador to Kuwait has left for the labour camp where fire erupted. Kuwait Govt orders massive demolition of illegal buildings. pic.twitter.com/P08oPG6iPO
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) June 12, 2024
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‘Due to the tragic fire accident involving Indian personnel today, the Embassy has established an emergency number: 965-65505246. Anyone involved is asked to contact this hotline for updates. The Embassy remains committed to providing all possible assistance.” Indian Embassy in Kuwait X said in a message.
Deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait city. There are reportedly over 40 deaths and over 50 have been hospitalized. Our Ambassador has gone to the camp. We are awaiting further information.
Deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost…
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 12, 2024
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed shock over the Indian ambassador’s visit to the camp. He expressed deep shock at the news of a fire in Kuwait City that killed more than 40 people and hospitalized more than 50 people. Our ambassador went to the camp. We are waiting for more details,’ Jaishankar posted on X.
‘We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those tragically killed and wish the injured a speedy and complete recovery. Our embassy is doing everything possible for everyone involved in this matter,’ he added.
In connection with the tragic fire-accident involving Indian workers today, Embassy has put in place an emergency helpline number: +965-65505246.
All concerned are requested to connect over this helpline for updates. Embassy remains committed to render all possible assistance. https://t.co/RiXrv2oceo
— India in Kuwait (@indembkwt) June 12, 2024
KUNA reported that the fire has been controlled and authorities are searching the area for clues as to the cause of the fire.
‘The building where the fire started housed workers and housed many workers. Dozens were saved, but unfortunately several died from smoke inhalation.’ A senior police chief told state television.
‘We’re always concerned about cramming too many workers into housing,’ he said, without giving details about what kind of work the workers do or where they come from.
According to the authorities, the cause of the fire was investigated.
43 People Were Admitted To Hospitals
As soon as the information about the fire in the city of Mangaf was received, rescue teams immediately arrived at the place. Kuwait’s Ministry of Health announced that a rescue operation had been launched shortly after the fire. About 43 people were admitted to various hospitals in the city. The Indian Embassy is in touch with all Indians.
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