In a devastating fire that broke out at dawn in a building in southern Kuwait's Mangaf area, around 40 Indian nationals were killed and over 50 injured. The building, housing approximately 195 migrant workers, became a scene of tragedy as the fire took hold.
Casualty Details According to official reports, the total death toll in the Al-Mangaf building fire stands at 49. Among the deceased, 42 were Indian nationals, while the others included Pakistani, Filipino, Egyptian, and Nepali citizens.
Building Ownership
The building was owned by NBTC Group, Kuwait's largest construction company. KG Abraham, a prominent businessman from Thiruvalla, Kerala, is a partner and managing director of the group. Abraham, also known as KGA, founded the KGA Group in 1977. The company operates primarily in oil and allied industries under the name “Naser M Al Baddah & Partner Gen. Trading. & Contracting. Co. W.L.L.” (NBTC) and has activities spanning the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent.
Government Response
Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has traveled to Kuwait to oversee the assistance efforts for injured Indians and to ensure the repatriation of the deceased's remains. Before his departure, Singh stated that some bodies were charred beyond recognition, necessitating DNA tests for identification. He emphasized that an Air Force plane is on standby to repatriate the bodies once identified.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending his condolences to the families of the deceased and wishing a swift recovery for the injured. He assured that the Indian government would provide all necessary assistance.
Helpline and Assistance
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has established a helpline at 965-65505246, available for both WhatsApp and regular calls, to assist family members seeking information and support. Regular updates are being provided through this helpline.
Following the incident, Prime Minister Modi held a review meeting and announced an ex-gratia relief of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund for the families of the deceased Indian nationals.
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