Indian Community Holds Significant Presence in Kuwait: Comprising 21%(1 million) of Population and 30% of Workforce(approximately 9 lakhs).
Kuwait Fire: Reports indicate that several Indians may be among the victims of a tragic fire that claimed at least 41 lives in Kuwait’s Mangaf district. The fire, believed to have started in a kitchen early Wednesday, quickly engulfed the building, leaving many trapped inside.
Kuwait’s deputy prime minister confirmed the death toll of 41 individuals.
According to Onmanorama, among the casualties were 10 Indian nationals, including five from Kerala. The building accommodated approximately 195 laborers, including workers from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and is owned by the NBTC group, led by Malayali businessman KG Abraham.
Expressing shock, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar mentioned that the Indian ambassador has been dispatched to the camp.
“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,” Jaishankar posted on X.
“Deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives. Wish early and full recovery to those who have been injured. Our Embassy will render the fullest assistance to all concerned in this regard,” he added.
Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Adarsh Swaika, conducts on-site assessment in Mangaf and visits Al-Adan Hospital, where more than 30 Indian workers injured in the fire incident are receiving treatment.
“He met a number of patients and assured them of full assistance from the Embassy,” the Indian Embassy in Kuwait said in a post on X.
“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,” the Indian Embassy said in another post.
According to KUNA, authorities have brought the fire under control and are conducting a thorough investigation to determine its cause.
A senior police commander, speaking to state TV, revealed that the affected building housed numerous workers, resulting in several casualties due to smoke inhalation despite rescue efforts.
Emphasizing the dangers of overcrowded accommodations, the commander urged caution, though specifics regarding the workers’ employment and origins were not provided.
Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah has directed police to apprehend the building owner, janitor, and the company responsible for the workers, as reported by the Kuwait Times. He attributed the incident to corporate and property owners’ greed during his visit to the fire scene.
Authorities have initiated an investigation to ascertain the fire’s cause.
