The recent fire tragedy in Kuwait has cast a somber light on the perilous conditions faced by many blue-collar workers in the Gulf region. At least 40 Indian nationals perished in the blaze, which engulfed a six-storey building in Mangaf, Ahmadi Governorate. This incident has not only caused immense grief but also highlighted the pressing need for stringent safety regulations and living conditions for expatriate workers.
Understanding the Tragedy
In the early hours of Wednesday, a fire broke out in a kitchen on one of the lower floors of a building that housed dozens of low-paid workers, predominantly from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and northern Indian states. The fire quickly spread, trapping the residents in their sleep and resulting in most fatalities due to smoke inhalation.
Key Facts:
- Casualties: Over 40 Indian nationals killed, ages ranging from 20 to 50 years.
- Cause: Fire originated in the kitchen of a lower floor.
- Response: Kuwaiti firefighters and ambulances promptly arrived on the scene.
- Company Involved: The building was rented by the NBTC group, owned by Malayali businessman KG Abraham.
- Deputy PM’s Statement: Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah attributed the tragedy to the “greed of the company and building owners”.
Immediate Actions and Responses
Indian Government’s Response
- Urgent Meeting: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for an urgent meeting with senior officials to address the crisis.
- Ministerial Visit: Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, is set to travel to Kuwait to oversee relief operations.
- Emergency Helpline: The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has established an emergency helpline (+965-65505246) for updates and assistance.
- Site Visits: Indian Ambassador Adarsh Swaika visited the incident site and hospitals where the victims were admitted, ensuring constant communication with Kuwaiti authorities.
Local and International Reactions
- Kuwait’s Measures: The Kuwaiti Deputy PM has ordered the arrest of the building owner, janitor, and the responsible company’s owner. He has mandated immediate action to rectify similar safety violations.
- Political Reactions: Indian political leaders, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, have expressed grief and called for comprehensive assistance to the victims and their families.