40 Indians Dead, 50 Injured in Kuwait Building Fire; PM Reviews Situation

Photo : Reuters

Kuwait Building Fire: Tragedy Strikes as 40 Indians Perish, 50 Injured

A devastating fire erupted in a six-storey building in Kuwait's Mangaf city, claiming the lives of 40 Indians and leaving 50 others injured, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. The fire, which started around 6 am local time (9 am IST), reportedly began in a kitchen within the building, where nearly 195 people, all employees of the same company, were residing.

Officials indicated that most fatalities resulted from smoke inhalation as residents slept, unable to escape the rapidly spreading flames. Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly convened a high-level meeting, announcing compensation of ₹2 lakh each for the families of the deceased. He expressed condolences and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel   

Minister of State Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh has been dispatched to Kuwait on the Prime Minister's directive to oversee the repatriation of mortal remains and provide medical assistance to the injured.

The injured are receiving treatment across five government hospitals in Kuwait: Adan, Jaber, Farwaniya, Mubarak Al Kabeer, and Jahra. The Ministry of External Affairs reported that most patients are in stable condition, as confirmed by hospital authorities.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Kuwaiti counterpart Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, who assured a thorough investigation into the incident and promised accountability for those responsible. Jaishankar stressed the need for expeditious repatriation of the deceased.

The Indian embassy in Kuwait has established a helpline (+965-65505246) for family members seeking information or assistance. Indian Ambassador Adarsh Swaika visited the site of the fire and hospitals where the injured are receiving treatment.

Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait, has ordered an investigation into the fire and pledged to hold accountable those found responsible for the tragedy. Reports from Kuwait Times indicated that Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah, the First Deputy Prime Minister, has ordered the arrest of the building's owner, janitor, and the employer of the affected workers pending the completion of investigations.

Indians constitute a significant portion of Kuwait's population, with approximately 10 lakh individuals comprising 21% of the total populace and 30% of the workforce. The victims also included nationals from Pakistan, the Philippines, Egypt, and Nepal.

This tragic incident has sparked a wave of grief and calls for swift justice as authorities in both countries work to manage the aftermath and ensure support for the affected families and survivors.