Kuwait City, (13 June 2024) – A devastating fire in a six-storey building housing construction workers in Magnaf, Kuwait, has claimed the lives of 49 people, including 40 Indians. The incident, which occurred early Wednesday (June 12), has also left more than 50 people hospitalized.

The building, located in Kuwait's southern Ahmadi governorate, was home to 195 workers at the time of the fire. The Indian community, which constitutes 21 percent of Kuwait's population, has been deeply affected by this tragedy.

In response to the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a special meeting on Wednesday night. Following his instructions, a high-level delegation is set to travel to Kuwait. The Indian government has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased.

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has been in communication with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al Yahya regarding the incident. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait has launched a helpline number for assistance, and Indian Ambassador Adarsh Swaika has visited the hospital to check on the injured and assess the situation.

Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah has ordered an investigation into the cause of the fire. The tragic incident underscores the vulnerability of migrant workers in the region and the urgent need for improved safety measures in residential buildings.