The Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA) announced that among the 49 fatalities in the devastating fire at a six-storeyed building in Mangaf, Kuwait, 24 were Malayalees. Efforts are underway to repatriate the bodies to Kerala, coordinated with Kuwaiti authorities, said NORKA secretary K. Vasuki during a press conference on Thursday.
The central government has arranged a special aircraft to transport the bodies. DNA tests will be conducted on unidentified remains, with results expected within two weeks. The injured are receiving ongoing treatment in Kuwait, with six individuals reported to be in critical condition. NORKA is working with expatriates to provide comprehensive support to those affected by the tragedy, maintaining a help desk and Global Contact Centre operating 24/7.
Kerala's government has pledged full support to the central government’s efforts in Kuwait. Kerala's representative in Delhi, K.V. Thomas, is in continuous contact with the Ministry of External Affairs. Industries Minister P. Rajeev stated that the state government will provide all possible assistance, including medical support for the injured.
A special Cabinet meeting on Thursday decided to grant Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia to the families of Malayalees who perished in the fire. The injured will receive Rs 1 lakh each. Health Minister Veena George will be sent to Kuwait to coordinate the treatment of the injured and facilitate the return of the deceased’s bodies. She will be accompanied by National Health Mission director Jeevan Babu.
Additionally, industrialists M.A. Yusuff Ali and Ravi Pillai have offered financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh and Rs 2 lakh, respectively, to the families of the deceased. This aid will be distributed through NORKA. The Kerala government, alongside industrialists and the central government, is working diligently to support the victims and their families during this difficult time. The coordinated efforts aim to ensure the swift return of the bodies and continued medical care for the injured, reflecting a united response to the tragic incident.
