Embassy Supports 17 Indians Injured in Kuwait Fire, Ensures Well-being

Following a catastrophic fire in Kuwait that claimed the lives of 50 individuals, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India provided an update on the condition of Indian nationals affected by the incident. The fire, which erupted in a seven-storey building in Kuwait's Mangaf city on June 12, resulted in at least 45 Indian fatalities. The building was predominantly occupied by 196 migrant workers, with a significant majority being Indians. As of now, 17 injured Indians are receiving medical treatment in Kuwaiti hospitals and are reported to be in stable condition.

The Indian embassy is actively coordinating with local authorities, hospital administrations, and the families of the patients to ensure their welfare. In light of this tragedy, the NBTC Group, the employer of many victims, has expressed its deepest condolences and sympathy towards the affected families. Additionally, compensation measures have been announced by both the Kuwaiti government and the company involved.

In response to inquiries during a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal detailed the compensation plans. The Emir of Kuwait has pledged USD 15,000 to each victim's family. Furthermore, the NBTC Group has committed to providing Rs 8 lakh to the next of kin of those who perished in the blaze. The Indian Prime Minister also announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured on June 13. Various state governments in India have followed suit with their own compensation packages.

The company has not only promised Rs 2 lakh to all injured individuals but will also cover their medical expenses and support their rehabilitation. This comprehensive response aims to alleviate some of the hardships faced by those affected by this tragedy.

Repatriation Efforts

The repatriation of victims' bodies was swiftly organized, with a C-130J IAF aircraft landing at Kochi international airport on June 14 carrying 45 bodies. The reception at Kochi included Central and state ministers, along with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The remaining bodies were transported to Delhi on the same aircraft for their onward journeys.

This tragic event has prompted a unified response from both governmental and non-governmental entities to provide support and compensation to those impacted. The efforts by the Indian embassy to maintain close contact with all parties involved underscore the commitment to ensuring the well-being of its citizens abroad.