Kuwait City, Kuwait – A tragic fire swept through a building in Mangaf, Kuwait, resulting in the loss of 40 lives and leaving 42 others hospitalized. The incident was reported early on Wednesday, causing devastation among the migrant workers residing in the overcrowded apartment. The building’s violations, including exceeding its capacity, narrow exits, and poor living conditions, contributed to the high number of casualties.
Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed deep shock over the tragic event and pledged full assistance from the Indian Embassy to the families affected. The embassy promptly established an emergency helpline for updates and support for those impacted by the fire. Ambassador Adarsh Swaika visited the injured workers at the Al-Adan hospital, ensuring them of the embassy’s commitment to provide assistance.
Authorities were alerted to the fire at 6:00 a.m. local time, with Major General Eid Rashed Hamad coordinating the emergency response. Efforts were made to control the blaze, and investigations were initiated to determine the cause of the fire. The deputy Prime Minister condemned the building owners for their violations and greed, attributing these factors to the tragic incident.
Sheikh Fahad, overseeing the interior and defense ministries, highlighted the consequences of overcrowding and emphasized the need for proper housing regulations. A senior police commander reiterated the risks associated with cramming workers into inadequate accommodations, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety standards. The community mourned the lives lost in the fire and called for accountability to prevent similar tragedies in the future.