Kuwait Fire: Massive Blaze in Mangaf Leaves 49 Dead, Including Several Indians; Embassy Issues Emergency Numbers
Kuwait Fire: Massive Blaze in Mangaf Leaves 49 Dead, Including Several Indians; Embassy Issues Emergency Numbers
A major fire in Kuwait’s Mangaf area has tragically claimed the lives of 49 workers, including several Keralites, with over 30 others injured. Reports indicate that as many as 40 Indians were among those killed in the blaze. The fire began early Wednesday in the kitchen of a six-storey building housing approximately 160 workers in Kuwait’s southern Ahmadi Governorate.
The fire mishap in Kuwait City is saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is closely monitoring the situation and working with the authorities there to assist… https://t.co/cb7GHN6gmX
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2024
Indian Embassy Sets Up Emergency Numbers
In response to the tragedy, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait has established an emergency helpline (+965-65505246) to provide updates and assistance. The Embassy stated on social media, “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 community constitutes 21% of Kuwait’s population, making up around 30% of its workforce. Kuwait, a nation with a population of approximately 4.2 million, is home to the world’s sixth-largest known oil reserves. Similar incidents have occurred in the past, including a fire at an oil refinery in 2022 that resulted in four fatalities.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his shock on social media, stating, “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.” He offered condolences to the families of the victims and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. “Our Embassy will render the fullest assistance to all concerned in this regard,” he added.
Kuwait Orders Arrest of Building Owner
Kuwait’s Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah has ordered the arrest of the building owner, the janitor, and the owner of the company responsible for the workers. This action follows the criminal evidence personnel’s examination of the scene, as reported by the Kuwait Times. “What happened today is a result of the greed of the company and building owners,” the minister stated during his visit to the fire scene. He has directed the Kuwait Municipality and the Public Authority for Manpower to immediately address similar violations and ensure all safety requirements are met to prevent future incidents.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety standards to protect workers and prevent such tragedies in the future.
