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Dubai, June 12: Several Indians are feared to be among the 41 people killed in a major fire that broke out in a building housing workers in Kuwait on Wednesday, according to reports from the Gulf nation.
The blaze started in a kitchen of the six-storey building located in the Mangaf area of Kuwait's southern Ahmadi Governorate during the early hours of Wednesday, officials reported.
The building, which reportedly housed nearly 160 workers from the same company, included many Indian nationals.
"In connection with the tragic fire involving Indian workers today, the Embassy has put in place an emergency helpline number: +965-65505246. All concerned are requested to connect over this helpline for updates. The Embassy remains committed to rendering all possible assistance," the Indian Embassy in Kuwait announced on social media platform X.
Indians make up 21% (1 million) of Kuwait's total population and 30% (approximately 900,000) of its workforce.
"Deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait City. There are reportedly over 40 deaths and more than 50 hospitalizations. Our Ambassador has gone to the camp. We are awaiting further information," External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar posted on X.
"Deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives. Wishing a speedy and full recovery to those injured. Our Embassy will provide all necessary assistance to all concerned," he added.
Kuwait's Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah has ordered the arrest of the owner of the Mangaf building where the fire occurred, the building's janitor, and the owner of the company responsible for the workers, pending the results of a criminal investigation, the Kuwait Times reported.
"What happened today is a result of the greed of the company and building owners," the minister stated during his visit to the fire scene.
He also instructed the Kuwait Municipality and the Public Authority for Manpower to take immediate action to address similar violations, ensuring that all safety requirements are in place to prevent future incidents.
