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Several Indians among 41 dead in Kuwait fire, says PM monitoring embassy

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Building fire in Kuwait: The Ministry of Health said that about 43 people were hospitalized because of the fire.

New Delhi:

Several Indians were among the 41 people killed when a massive fire broke out in a building housing workers in the Kuwaiti city of Mangaf, sources said. The incident occurred at 6 a.m. local time (9 a.m. IST). Kuwait’s Health Ministry said 43 people were hospitalized and four had died.

The fire broke out in a kitchen in the six-story building, officials said. Nearly 160 people who worked for the same company reportedly lived in the building. Eyewitnesses said some people jumped from the fifth floor of the building to escape the fire and died.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his condolences to the families of those killed in the fire in a post on X: “The fire accident in Kuwait City is sad. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover as soon as possible. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is closely monitoring the situation and is working with the authorities there to assist those affected,” he said.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said the Indian ambassador had travelled to the site of the incident.

“We are deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait City. Reports say that over 40 people have died and over 50 have been hospitalized. Our ambassador has travelled to the camp. We are awaiting further information,” said External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.

The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has set up a helpline and previously stated that Indian workers were also involved in the fire accident and that the embassy would provide all possible assistance.

“I extend my deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives. I wish a speedy and full recovery to those injured. Our embassy will provide the greatest possible support to all those affected in this regard,” he added.

The Indian Ambassador to Kuwait said that over 30 Indian workers injured in today’s fire incident have been admitted.

The ambassador met the patients and assured them of the embassy’s full support.

Indians constitute 21 percent (1 million) of Kuwait’s total population and 30 percent of the workforce (approximately 900,000).

“The building where the fire broke out was used as a workers’ quarters and there were many workers there. Dozens were rescued, but unfortunately there were many deaths as a result of smoke inhalation,” Reuters news agency reported, citing a senior police commander.

“We always warn against” cramming too many workers into residential quarters, he said, without giving details about the type of employment or where the workers come from.

The fire was contained and authorities were investigating the cause.

With contributions from PTI and Reuters

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