Kuwait Pledges Support After Fire Kills 49, Including 40 Indians, in Mangaf

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Kuwait Assures Full Support to Indian Workers After Tragic Fire Claims 49 Lives

Team Finance Saathi

13/Jun/2024

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Kuwait's Foreign Minister assures comprehensive support for the Indian victims of the Mangaf apartment fire.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh oversees relief efforts and visits injured workers.
DNA tests and repatriation plans are in progress to identify and return the mortal remains of the deceased.

In a devastating incident, a massive fire engulfed an apartment housing foreign workers in Mangaf, southern Kuwait, resulting in the tragic loss of 49 lives, including approximately 40 Indians. The fire, which broke out on Wednesday in a seven-storey building housing 196 migrant workers, has left over 50 others injured, many of whom are also Indian nationals.

Responding swiftly to this tragic event, Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya has assured full support for the affected individuals. During a meeting with Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, who is currently in Kuwait to oversee relief efforts, Minister Yahya conveyed his condolences and pledged comprehensive assistance. This includes medical care for the injured, prompt repatriation of the mortal remains, and a thorough investigation into the incident. The Embassy of India in Kuwait confirmed these developments in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Minister Singh's immediate actions included visiting Jaber Hospital, where six injured Indians are receiving treatment. He assured them of all possible support from the Indian government. His visits extended to Mubarak Al Kabeer Hospital, where seven more injured Indians are admitted. The Indian mission praised the hospital authorities, doctors, and nurses for their diligent care of the injured workers.

In a coordinated effort to handle the aftermath of the tragedy, Kuwaiti authorities are conducting DNA tests on the bodies of the deceased to ensure accurate identification. An Indian Air Force aircraft remains on standby to facilitate the repatriation of the mortal remains once the identification process is complete. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi has confirmed these measures, highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, deeply saddened by the incident, reviewed the situation in a high-level meeting with senior officials including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, and Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister PK Mishra. Following this meeting, Prime Minister Modi announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased Indian nationals from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund. He emphasized the need for the Indian government to extend all possible assistance to the affected families.

In his phone conversation with the Kuwaiti Foreign Minister on Wednesday, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar urged for the swift repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased. This coordinated diplomatic effort underscores the strong ties between India and Kuwait and their mutual commitment to addressing the needs of the affected individuals promptly.

The Mangaf fire tragedy has highlighted the precarious conditions faced by many migrant workers in the Gulf region. It has also underscored the importance of stringent safety measures and better living conditions for foreign workers. As the investigation unfolds, it is hoped that lessons will be learned to prevent such incidents in the future.

The Indian government, through its embassy in Kuwait and other diplomatic channels, continues to monitor the situation closely. The focus remains on providing all necessary support to the victims and their families during this difficult time. The prompt response from both Kuwaiti and Indian authorities reflects a deep commitment to ensuring the welfare of migrant workers and upholding their rights and dignity.

In conclusion, the tragedy in Mangaf is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers abroad. It calls for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure their safety and well-being. As investigations proceed and support efforts are ramped up, the hope is for a swift resolution and the prevention of such tragic events in the future.

Also Read : India Rejects China-Pakistan Joint Statement on Jammu and Kashmir, Reaffirms Territorial Sovereignty

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Kuwait Assures Full Support to Indian Workers After Tragic Fire Claims 49 Lives

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