KUWAIT CITY, Kuwait – The death toll from a devastating fire at an Al-Mangaf building has risen to over 35, with 15 individuals hospitalized for injuries, four of whom have tragically passed away. The majority of the deceased were Indian nationals working for the NBTC group, with ages ranging from twenty to fifty years. The building housed over 195 laborers, primarily from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and North India, who were renting the space from the NBTC group. Five firefighters also sustained injuries during the rescue operation.
Authorities are currently managing the aftermath of the Mangaf building fire, with multiple fire stations responding to the incident and hospitals caring for the injured. The Ministry of Health has provided medical care to 43 individuals affected by the fire, with various degrees of injuries, ensuring that they receive necessary treatment. Specialized medical teams have been formed to provide immediate care and support to the injured and their families.
In response to the tragedy, the First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, along with the Governors of Mubarak Al-Kabeer and Ahmadi, visited the site. The company official and building guard have been detained by order of Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, the First Deputy Prime Minister. Engineer Saud Al-Dabbous, the Director General of Kuwait Municipality, took swift action by suspending several key officials pending an investigation into the incident.
The Indian Ambassador, Dr. Adarsh Swaika, visited Al-Adan Hospital to check on the Indian workers injured in the fire. Approximately 30 Indian workers are currently being treated at the hospital. Eyewitnesses described harrowing tales of the catastrophic fire, recounting scenes of fear and heroism amidst the chaos as residents tried to escape the inferno. Firefighters’ prompt response and residents’ adherence to safety instructions played a critical role in saving lives during the blaze.
As investigations into the incident continue, eyewitness accounts serve as poignant reminders of the devastation caused by the fire and the resilience shown by individuals in the face of adversity. The tragic event has prompted a reevaluation of safety measures and protocols to prevent similar disasters in the future.