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The death toll from a devastating fire that engulfed a six-floor building in the al-Mangaf area has surged to 49, as reported by Kuwait’s state news agency Kuna, citing the Interior Ministry. The blaze, which erupted while residents were asleep, primarily housed migrant workers, according to local media.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes of residents leaping from the burning building in a bid to escape. Kuwait’s Emir Meshal Al Ahmad has ordered a thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of the inferno and to hold accountable those responsible, Kuna revealed.
Interior Ministry spokesman Nasser Abu Salib emphasized that stringent actions would be taken against the building’s proprietors. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to identify the victims and probe the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Initial reports had estimated the death toll at over 35, with most fatalities attributed to smoke inhalation, as confirmed by a security official. The Health Ministry disclosed that 43 individuals had been hospitalized for treatment.
40 Indians killed, 30 injured in Labour Camp fire in Kuwait
Over 30 were injured. 90 Indians have been rescued. pic.twitter.com/vQzknDhjT4
— Sumit (@SumitHansd) June 12, 2024
In response to the catastrophe, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a review meeting, extending condolences to the families of the deceased and announcing ex-gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister Relief Fund for affected Indian nationals.
Modi directed swift government assistance and dispatched Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs to Kuwait to oversee relief efforts and facilitate the repatriation of victims’ remains. Key officials including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the meeting to address the unfolding crisis.
