Kuwait Fire Incident: After a massive fire engulfed a multi-storey building housing workers in Kuwait, killing at least 41 and injuring over 50 others, including Indians, India acting switfly, began undertaking rapid response measures to provide assistance to the those affected. The incident took place today early morning at a six-storey building in the Mangaf area in Kuwait's southern Ahmadi Governorate.
The newly-appointed Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh tweeted that he was departing for Kuwait "immediately" as directed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stated that his visit will be focused on providing aid to the Indians injured in the fire and to for the early repatriation of the mortal remains.
"As directed by PM Modi Ji, we are immediately departing for Kuwait to provide assistance to those injured in the fire tragedy and to coordinate with local authorities for early repatriation of mortal remains of those who have died in this unfortunate incident," Singh posted on X.
MoS MEA Singh also stated that PM Modi has called for an urgent meeting only after which the team will leave for Kuwait.
The Indian Embassy in Kuwait issued a helpline number to provide assistance to the Indian workers who were affected due to the incident. "In connection with the tragic fire-accident involving Indian workers today, Embassy has put in place an emergency helpline number: +965-65505246," the Indian Embassy posted on X, asking the concerned people to connect over the helpline for updates.
"Embassy remains committed to render all possible assistance," it added.
Ambassador of India to Kuwait Adarsh Swaika Visits Hospitals To Meet Injured
Meanwhile, the Ambassador of India to Kuwait, Adarsh Swaika is visiting the hospitals in Kuwait where the injured Indians have been admitted for treatement.
Ambassador Swaika visited Jahra Hospital, where 6 workers, who are reportedly Indians have been admitted after being injured in today's fire incident. "They are reportedly stable. Another 6 are expected to be shifted to Jahra hospital today from Mangaf site," the Indian Embassy in Kuwait, posted on X.
'Was Assured Incident Will Be Fully Investigated': Jaishankar
EAM Jaishankar stated that he spoke to Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya regarding the fire incident in Kuwait.
"Apprised of the efforts made by Kuwaiti authorities in that regard. Was assured that the incident would be fully investigated and that responsibility will be fixed," Jaishankar wrote on X.
He also said that he has urged for the early repatriation of the mortal remains of the Indians who lost their lives in the tragedy.
The Kuwaiti FM emphasised that the injured were receiving the required medical attention, Jaishankar said, adding that India will review the situation after MoS Kirti Vardhan Singh reached Kuwait on June 13.