At least 41 individuals lost their lives in a Kuwait fire that engulfed a worker housing building in Kuwait’s southern Mangaf district early Wednesday morning. The building, situated in the Mangaf area, was home to nearly 160 workers from the same company, including numerous Indian nationals, as confirmed by local officials.
Casualties and Injuries
Death Toll: The fire tragically claimed the lives of 41 individuals, with the majority being Indian nationals aged between 20 and 50 years old.
Injuries: Fifteen individuals were admitted to hospitals, with four succumbing to their injuries later. Among the injured were five firefighters who sustained wounds during the rescue operations.
Causes of Death: Most fatalities occurred due to smoke inhalation while residents were asleep, highlighting the swift and deadly nature of the blaze.
Emergency Response
Indian Embassy’s Response: The Indian Embassy in Kuwait promptly established an emergency helpline (+965-65505246) to assist affected individuals and provide updates.
External Affairs Minister’s Statement: S Jaishankar expressed shock and offered condolences, noting that the Indian Ambassador was present at the scene awaiting further information.
Ambassador’s Actions
Site Visit: Indian Ambassador Adarsh Swaika visited the fire scene and hospitals where injured Indian workers were receiving treatment.
Hospital Visits: The Ambassador reassured full assistance from the embassy, confirming that most patients were in stable condition.
Kuwait Government’s Response
Arrests Ordered: Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah, first deputy PM, ordered the arrest of the building owner, the janitor, and the company owner pending investigation.
Suspensions: Several key officials from Kuwait Municipality were suspended to ensure public safety pending a thorough investigation into the incident.
Eyewitness Accounts
With Indians forming a significant portion of Kuwait’s population and workforce, eyewitnesses recounted scenes of fear and chaos as flames engulfed the building. Tragic accounts included a worker leaping from the fifth floor, meeting a fatal end upon striking a balcony’s edge.
This devastating Kuwait fire has left a profound impact on the community, prompting urgent action and solidarity in the face of tragedy.