More than 40 people, including several Indians, were killed when a major fire broke out in building housing workers in the city of Mangaf in southern Kuwait early on Wednesday.

”The majority of the deceased were Indian nationals working for NBTC group, with ages ranging between twenty and fifty years. The building houses over 195 labourers, primarily Indians from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and North India,” local media reports said.

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The blaze, which erupted in a densely populated workers’ residence, was reported to the fire department at 4:30 am and quickly controlled. Most deaths were due to smoke inhalation while residents were sleeping, and a significant number of occupants were evacuated, reports said.

The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the condition of the injured and coordinating with relevant hospitals and authorities to meet all necessary needs and provide the best possible treatment services. Specialised medical teams have also been formed to follow up on the injured and offer psychological and moral support to them and their families, the reports added.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, ”The fire mishap in Kuwait City is saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is closely monitoring the situation and working with the authorities there to assist the affected.”

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, ”Deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait city. There are reportedly over 40 deaths and over 50 have been hospitalised. Our Ambassador has gone to the camp. We are awaiting further information.”

He offered his deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives and wished early and full recovery to those who have been injured. ”Our Embassy will render the fullest assistance to all concerned in this regard,” he added.