Tragedy Strikes Kerala Families in Kuwait Labor Housing Fire

Dozens of families in Kerala, India, were devastated by a tragic fire incident that occurred in a labor housing facility in Mangaf, Kuwait. The Ministry of External Affairs of India confirmed that 40 Indians lost their lives in the blaze, along with nine other individuals including three Filipino nationals. The Kuwaiti Foreign Minister, Abdullah al-Yahya, reported a total of at least 50 casualties due to the fire.

The majority of the population in Kuwait, which borders Iraq and Saudi Arabia, consists of foreigners, with many hailing from South and Southeast Asia and working in various industries. These workers often reside in crowded accommodations, highlighting the challenges faced by migrant workers in the region.

Norka Roots, a government agency in Kerala, disclosed that 24 individuals from the state were among the deceased. Efforts are underway to repatriate the bodies back to India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing his condolences and pledging support to the affected families.

Kirti Vardhan Singh, India’s junior foreign minister, has arrived in Kuwait to assist with the repatriation process and provide aid to survivors. The tragic incident has left many families in shock, with relatives anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones.

Among the victims were Muralidharan Nair, a longtime resident of Kuwait, and Saju Varghese, who had planned a visit to India for his daughter’s education. The heartbreaking loss has reverberated across Kerala, with friends and neighbors mourning the tragic fate of those who perished in the fire.

Details regarding the nationality of the deceased are still being confirmed by Kuwaiti authorities, with the Philippines confirming the death of three nationals. The Kuwaiti government has taken action against the building owner for potential negligence, emphasizing the importance of safety regulations in such accommodations.