Mangaf fire: What caused it and its aftermath

Kuwait City: In the southern Kuwait area of Mangaf, tragedy struck when a devastating fire broke out, claiming the lives of 49 individuals, predominantly of Indian nationality. Mangaf, situated in the Ahmadi Governorate, is densely populated by foreign workers, and the fire swiftly engulfed a six-story building, leaving behind a scene of profound loss and devastation as per agency reports.

As authorities grapple with the aftermath of the catastrophe, numerous questions have arisen concerning the cause of the fire and potential violations of building codes. Initial reports indicate that the fire originated from a cooking gas cylinder explosion in the quarters of an Egyptian security guard, which ignited a blaze that rapidly spread throughout the building. The fire’s point of origin was identified as the ground floor of Block-4, setting off a chain of events that led to the loss of dozens of lives.

Also read: Several Indians among 49 dead in Mangaf building fire in Kuwait, many injured

The building, owned by a Kuwaiti native who also served as the company sponsor, housed a total of 195 individuals across various apartments. Among them, 92 residents were reported safe, while 20 were absent due to night duty at the time of the incident. The building primarily accommodated employees of the NBTC company, a fact that underscores the profound impact of the tragedy on the local workforce.

The timing of the fire, erupting at four in the morning, exacerbated its impact as most occupants were asleep when the blaze erupted. In their desperate attempts to escape the inferno, some tragically lost their lives by jumping from the building, while others succumbed to asphyxiation due to smoke inhalation. The loss of life and the scale of the devastation have sent shockwaves through the community, leaving behind a profound sense of grief and mourning.

In response to the tragedy, Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah swiftly ordered authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the fire. He emphasized the importance of holding accountable those responsible for the safety and well-being of the building’s occupants. Additionally, the Emir extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and expressed his sincere sympathy for the injured, wishing them a speedy recovery.

Agencies reported that the Emir directed officials to diligently follow up on the causes of the fire outbreak and ensure that those found responsible are held accountable for their actions. Furthermore, leaders from UAE, including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, conveyed messages of solidarity and support to the Emir and the people of Kuwait during this difficult time, offering their condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a swift recovery for the injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the fire incident as “saddening”. He mentioned that the Indian Embassy in Kuwait is keeping a close watch on what’s happening there. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that he’s giving Rs 2 lakh to the families of Indian nationals who died. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh is going to Kuwait as directed by Prime Minister Modi to help injured Indians and make sure that the bodies of those who died come back to India soon.

-Agencies