Kuwait Building Fire: The ill-fated morning of Wednesday (June 12) came as a disaster for Indians who had gone to Kuwait, thousands of kilometers away from their homeland, for jobs. It was around six in the morning, most of the workers and residents were in deep sleep or those who had woken up were still in their sleep. The intoxication of sleep had not completely subsided when the heat and noise of the flames knocked them with terror and death.
The fire started on the first floor, the flames were getting stronger and spreading, then the trapped, frightened people started screaming and trying to get out. In this effort, many people were successful in getting out, but this tragic accident took away at least Took the lives of 49 people, in which a large number were Indians. More than 50 people are admitted to the hospital in injured condition, many of whom suffered injuries and minor or serious burns in the fire. The Government of Kuwait has held Real Estate Honor responsible for this accident.
When did the fire start?
According to media reports, a fire broke out on the first floor of a building located in South Mangaf district of Kuwait in the early hours of Wednesday. This fire spread throughout the building within no time. When the fire broke out, it was around 6 am local time and 8 am Indian time. About 160 people lived in the building, who are employees of the same company.
Many Indians died in massive fire accident
According to Kerala’s media organization Onmanorama, so far 11 people from the state have died in this accident. According to the website, people from other states including Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu may also be among those who lost their lives in this accident. Umaruddin Shamir, who had gone to Kuwait from Kollam, Kerala, has died in this accident.
PM Modi expressed grief
Officials of the Indian Embassy in Kuwait reached the spot and an emergency number has also been issued for the people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Expressed grief over this incident. PM Modi wrote on Twitter, “The incident of fire in Kuwait city is sad. My condolences are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover as soon as possible. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is closely monitoring the situation and working with the authorities there to assist the affected people.
What did Foreign Minister S Jaishankar say?
India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar expressed grief over this incident. He said, “Deeply shocked by the news of fire incident in Kuwait City. More than 40 have reportedly died and more than 50 have been hospitalised. Our ambassador has gone to the camp. We are waiting for further information. Deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives, those who were injured. I wish for his speedy and complete recovery. Our embassy will provide full assistance to all concerned parties in this regard.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs will visit Kuwait
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that following the instructions of PM Modi, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh will leave for Kuwait. During this, he will interact to monitor the relief to the people injured in the fire tragedy and coordinate with the local authorities for speedy return of the mortal remains of those killed in this unfortunate incident. Meanwhile, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait Adarsh Swaika visited Al-Aden Hospital in Kuwait City. Here he inquired about the condition of the Indians who got burnt due to the fire.
Indian Embassy released helpline number
After the fire incident in Kuwait, the Indian Embassy has issued a helpline number (+965-65505246). The relatives of the deceased and injured can contact through phone and WhatsApp. The Indian Embassy said that all concerned are requested to contact the helpline for updates and the Embassy is committed to providing all possible assistance.
Kuwait’s Emir ordered action
According to the news of Kuwait Times, Kuwait’s Interior Minister has ordered the arrest of the owner of the building. Meanwhile, Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah expressed grief over the incident. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and consoled the families of those who died in the fire. Apart from this, he ordered an investigation into the incident and directed action against careless people.