Kuwait - A devastating fire ripped through a residential building housing migrant workers in Kuwait City early Wednesday morning, resulting in the deaths of 40 Indian nationals and injuries to 50 others. The tragic incident has left families across India, particularly in the southern state of Kerala, grappling with immense grief.
Kerala Families Mourn Loved Ones
Among the victims were five men hailing from different parts of Kerala, whose families are now faced with the heartbreaking task of repatriating their loved ones' remains.
Kollam Resident's Hopes Extinguished
In Kollam district, the family of Umarudheen Shameer received the crushing news that their beloved had perished in the fire. Shameer, who had been working in Kuwait as a driver for the past five years, was identified by relatives settled in the Gulf nation. His family is currently coordinating with authorities to bring his body back to Kerala, where he had last visited just nine months ago during his leave.
Young Engineer's Promising Life Cut Short
Another devastating loss was that of 29-year-old Sajan George from Kollam, whose body was recovered on Wednesday from the fire-ravaged building. Sajan, an M Tech graduate, had moved to Kuwait only a month ago after securing a job as a junior mechanical engineer at the company where the accident occurred.
Kottayam Man's Family Shattered
The fire also claimed the life of Stephin Abraham Sabu, a 29-year-old engineer from Pampady, Kottayam. Stephin's mother, Shirley Sabu, and brothers Febin and Kevin, are grappling with the untimely loss of their loved one. Febin, who is also in Kuwait, now faces the daunting task of making arrangements for his brother's repatriation.
Kasargod Loses Two Sons
The northern Kerala district of Kasargod was not spared from the tragedy, with two of its residents, Kelu Ponmaleri and Ranjith, also among the deceased. Kelu, a native of Thrikaripur, worked as a production engineer with the NBTC Group, leaving behind his wife, KN Mani, a Panchayat employee, and their two sons. Ranjith, 34, had been working in Kuwait for the past decade.
NBTC Group Building at Center of Tragedy
The building where the devastating fire erupted was constructed by NBTC, the largest construction group in Kuwait, raising questions about safety standards and living conditions for migrant workers in the region.
As families in Kerala and across India grapple with unimaginable loss, the incident has shed light on the vulnerabilities faced by millions of migrant workers worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety regulations and humane living conditions..
