In a tragic incident in Kuwait, a major fire engulfed an apartment complex in Mangaf, claiming the lives of at least 49 Indians, most of whom were from Kerala. This devastating event prompted the cancellation of the cultural programme scheduled for the inaugural ceremony of the Loka Kerala Sabha’s fourth edition. The Sabha, a significant initiative by the Kerala government aimed at uniting the global Malayali diaspora, was set to commence its activities at the Kerala Assembly’s R Sankara Narayanan Thampi Members’ Lounge. However, in light of the recent catastrophe, all celebrations associated with the event have been called off. The fire broke out in the early hours, causing severe casualties and injuries among the predominantly Indian residents of the seven-storey building.
BulletsIn
- The fire tragedy in Kuwait claimed the lives of over 40 Indians, predominantly from Kerala, and injured many others.
- The Loka Kerala Sabha’s inaugural conference and cultural programmes were cancelled following the incident.
- Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed grief and urged Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to coordinate rescue operations.
- Indian Union Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh was dispatched to Kuwait to oversee assistance for the injured and repatriation of the deceased.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and assured all necessary support to the affected families.
- The Indian Embassy in Kuwait established an emergency helpline for assistance.
- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed deep shock and condolences, engaging with Kuwaiti authorities to manage the aftermath.
- The identification process for the deceased, many of whom were charred beyond recognition, is ongoing.
- Reports indicate the fire started in the early morning, catching the residents unaware as they slept.
- The tragic incident underscores the challenges faced by expatriate communities and the need for coordinated international response during emergencies.
