A devastating fire in Kuwait has claimed the lives of at least 40 Indian nationals, leaving dozens more injured. The tragedy struck in the early hours of Wednesday, as flames engulfed a six-storey building housing laborers in the Mangaf area of Kuwait’s southern Ahmadi Governorate.
Initial reports suggest that most victims succumbed to smoke inhalation while asleep, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in migrant worker accommodations. The majority of those affected hailed from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and various northern Indian states, underscoring the international scope of the tragedy.
Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah, minced no words in assigning blame, pointing fingers at the “greed” of both the building owners and the company leasing the premises, reportedly owned by Malayali businessman KG Abraham. This tragic incident has once again shone a spotlight on the plight of low-paid, blue-collar workers in the Gulf, often forced to live in overcrowded and unsafe conditions.
Latest Updates on the Tragedy:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for an urgent meeting of senior officials to address the crisis, signaling the government’s commitment to swift action. Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, will soon depart for Kuwait to oversee relief operations and coordinate with local authorities.
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has established an emergency helpline (+965-65505246) to provide crucial updates and assistance to affected families. Ambassador Adarsh Swaika has been actively engaged, visiting the site of the incident and hospitals where victims are receiving treatment.
Meanwhile, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to ensure coordinated efforts between Indian and Kuwaiti authorities in rescue and relief operations.
In response to the tragedy, Kuwait’s Deputy PM has ordered the immediate arrest of those responsible for the building and company, signaling a crackdown on safety violations. This incident has sparked nationwide mourning in India, with opposition leaders expressing solidarity and demanding robust support for the victims and their families.
As investigations continue and the recovery effort intensifies, the Kuwait fire serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to protect vulnerable migrant workers across the Gulf region.
