Kerala CM appeals for assistance in wake of Mangaf fire

INDIA, June 12: In response to the tragic fire incident in Kuwait City, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and assured that the Indian Embassy is actively involved in assisting those affected. The fire, which occurred in a building housing laborers, resulted in over 40 deaths and numerous injuries.

Prime Minister Modi, in a statement, conveyed his sorrow over the mishap and extended sympathy to the families of the victims. He emphasized the need for swift recovery of the injured and affirmed that the Indian Embassy is closely monitoring the situation, collaborating with local authorities to provide necessary assistance.

"The fire mishap in Kuwait City is saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their near and dear ones," PM Modi posted on X.

"I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is closely monitoring the situation and working with the authorities there to assist the affected," he added.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also expressed shock at the incident, revealing that the Indian Ambassador to Kuwait has visited the camp where the fire occurred. Jaishankar underscored the severity of the situation, citing over 40 reported deaths and numerous hospitalizations. He further stated that they are awaiting further updates on the incident.

Meanwhile, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, urging the central government's intervention in the aftermath of the fire. Vijayan termed the incident as "utterly painful" and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased. He highlighted the significant number of Malayalees among the victims and emphasized the need for coordinated relief efforts.

Reports indicate that the fire broke out in a camp, known as the NBTC camp, in Mangaf, Kuwait. Many Indians, including individuals from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and other northern states, were among the casualties. The majority of the deaths were attributed to smoke inhalation, with the tragic incident leaving many injured.

Construction firm NBTC group had rented the building to accommodate more than 195 workers, primarily Indians. The fire, which was reported to authorities in the Al-Ahmadi governorate, has sparked widespread concern and calls for immediate action to support the affected individuals and their families.