In a devastating incident on Wednesday, a massive fire in Kuwait claimed the lives of at least 42 Indian nationals in Mangaf district. The blaze, which engulfed a building housing foreign workers, prompted the Indian government to dispatch a high-level team to coordinate with local authorities for the repatriation of the deceased’s remains.
Swift Response and Harrowing Escapes
The fire broke out on Tuesday, and despite a quick response from local authorities, many residents died in their sleep or resorted to desperate measures, such as jumping from the first floor, to escape the blaze. A senior Kuwaiti journalist told CNN-News18 that the intense heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius, likely contributed to the tragedy, prompting regular government warnings.
#WATCH | Kuwait fire incident | Delhi: Before leaving for Kuwait from Delhi Airport, MoS MEA Kirti Vardhan Singh says, “We had a meeting last evening with the PM… The situation will be cleared the moment we reach there… The situation is that the victims are mostly burn… pic.twitter.com/ijqW3QQADM
— ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2024
Victims and Survivors
The building, rented by the construction firm NBTC Group and owned by an Indian company, housed over 195 workers, predominantly from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and northern states of India. Among the victims were:
- Stephin Abraham Sabu, 29, an engineer from Kottayam’s Pampadi.
- Kelu Ponmaleri from Thrikaripur, survived by his wife KN Mani.
- Ranjith, 34, from Kasargod.
- Sajan George, 29, from Punalur, leaving behind his parents and sister.
- Lucose from Kollam, survived by his wife Shiny and children Lydia and Lois.
India’s Response
Before departing for Kuwait from Delhi Airport, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh emphasized that the majority of victims suffered severe burns, with some bodies charred beyond recognition. DNA testing is currently underway to facilitate identification, and an Air Force aircraft is on standby for immediate deployment. “As soon as the bodies are identified, the kin will be informed, and our airforce plane will bring the bodies back,” MoS Singh told ANI.
Diplomatic Efforts
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke to his Kuwaiti counterpart, Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, urging the early repatriation of the deceased’s mortal remains and assured of an investigation into the incident. Jaishankar highlighted the efforts made by Kuwaiti authorities and confirmed that those injured were receiving proper medical attention.
Spoke to Kuwaiti FM Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya on the fire tragedy in Kuwait.
Apprised of the efforts made by Kuwaiti authorities in that regard. Was assured that the incident would be fully investigated and that responsibility will be fixed.
Urged the early repatriation of the…
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 12, 2024
Prime Minister’s Directive
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as “saddening” and reviewed the situation with senior officials, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval. Modi announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh to the families of the deceased Indian nationals from the PM Relief Fund and directed the government to extend all possible assistance. “The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is closely monitoring the situation and working with the authorities there to assist the affected,” Modi said on social media platform ‘X’.
Upon reaching back to Delhi after today’s two oath taking ceremonies, chaired a meeting to review the situation in the wake of the fire mishap in Kuwait, where people of Indian origin have been affected.
GoI is doing everything possible to assist those affected by this gruesome… pic.twitter.com/DVmeCcEGZH
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 12, 2024
Ground Efforts in Kuwait
Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Adarsh Swaika, visited the incident site and hospitals to check on the welfare of Indian nationals. The embassy is coordinating with local authorities to assist the injured and ensure they receive proper medical care. A helpline has been established for family members to get updates.
Investigation Underway
Kuwait’s Interior Ministry confirmed that criminal evidence department personnel are working to identify the victims and determine the cause of the fire. Strict measures will be taken against building owners violating norms. Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah ordered an investigation and directed the apprehension of the building’s owner and janitor, highlighting the negligence and greed that led to the tragedy.
The fire in Kuwait’s Mangaf district has caused immense grief, particularly for the families of the 42 Indian nationals who lost their lives. The Indian government’s swift action and ongoing diplomatic efforts aim to bring solace and support to the affected families during this difficult time. The investigation into the cause of the fire will be crucial in ensuring accountability and preventing future tragedies.