Kuwait Fire Mangaf: 41 dead, majority believed to be Indians; Indian Embassy issues emergency numbers

A major fire in Kuwait‘s Mangaf area killed 41 workers, many of whom were Indians, including five Keralites. The blaze began in a kitchen of a six-storey building housing 160 workers. Five victims have been identified as Keralites, according to onmanorama. The blaze started early Wednesday in a kitchen of a six-storey building in the Mangaf area of Kuwait’s southern Ahmadi Governorate. The building housed nearly 160 workers, many of whom were reportedly Indian.

Indian Embassy Set up Emergency Numbers

The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has set up an emergency helpline (+965-65505246) for updates and assistance. “In connection with the tragic fire-accident involving Indian workers today, Embassy has put in place an emergency helpline number: +965-65505246. All concerned are requested to connect over this helpline for updates. Embassy remains committed to render all possible assistance,” stated the Embassy on X.

Indian Community in Kuwait

Indians make up 21% (1 million) of Kuwait’s population and 30% (approximately 900,000) of its workforce. Kuwait, a country with a population of approximately 4.2 million, holds the world’s sixth-largest known oil reserves. The nation has faced similar incidents in the past, including a fire at an oil refinery in 2022 that resulted in four fatalities.

Deeply Shocked over Kuwait Fire Incident: MEA S Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his shock on X, stating, “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.” He conveyed condolences to the families of the victims and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. “Our Embassy will render the fullest assistance to all concerned in this regard,” he added.

Kuwait Orders Arrest of Building Owner

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, pending the criminal evidence personnel’s examination of the scene, as reported by the Kuwait Times.

“What happened today is a result of the greed of the company and building owners,” the minister said during his visit to the fire scene. He has directed the Kuwait Municipality and the Public Authority for Manpower to immediately address similar violations and ensure all safety requirements are met to prevent future incidents.