A devastating fire in the southern Mangaf district of Kuwait has claimed the lives of at least 41 people, including several Indians, according to multiple reports. The blaze, which broke out early Wednesday morning, reportedly started in a kitchen on a lower floor and quickly spread through the building, trapping many inside.
Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister confirmed the death toll to Reuters, while Onmanorama reported that 10 Indian nationals, including five from Kerala, were among the victims. The building housed around 195 laborers, including workers from Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is owned by the NBTC group, led by Malayali businessman KG Abraham, Onmanorama noted.
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed shock over the incident, stating that the Indian ambassador had gone to the site. “Deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait city. There are reportedly over 40 deaths and over 50 have been hospitalized. Our Ambassador has gone to the camp. We are awaiting further information,” Jaishankar posted on X. He extended his deepest condolences to the victims’ families and wished for a speedy recovery for the injured. He assured that the Indian Embassy would provide full assistance to those affected.
Indian Ambassador to Kuwait Adarsh Swaika visited the site in Mangaf to assess the situation and also visited Al-Adan hospital, where over 30 Indian workers injured in the fire are being treated. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait confirmed the ambassador’s visit and his assurance of support to the injured.
In response to the tragedy, the Indian Embassy has established an emergency helpline at 965-65505246 for updates and assistance. The embassy reiterated its commitment to providing all possible support.
Kuwait’s state news agency KUNA reported that the fire had been brought under control and that authorities were investigating the cause. A senior police commander told state TV that the building, used to house workers, was overcrowded, leading to many deaths from smoke inhalation. The commander emphasized the dangers of cramming too many workers into inadequate housing.
Kuwait’s Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah has ordered the arrest of the building owner, the janitor, and the owner of the company responsible for the workers, according to the Kuwait Times. He attributed the tragedy to the greed of the company and building owners, stating this during his visit to the fire scene. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.
