Dubai/Kuwait City: The Kuwaiti government has announced it will provide USD 15,000 (around Rs 12.5 lakhs) to each family of the victims of a tragic fire that claimed 50 lives, including 46 Indians, in the southern Ahmadi Governorate. The fire, which occurred on July 12 at a seven-storey building in Mangaf city, was attributed to an electrical short circuit in the guard's room on the ground floor, as reported by Kuwaiti authorities. The building housed 196 migrant workers, predominantly Indians.

On the orders of the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the victims' families will receive compensation amounting to USD 15,000 each, the Arab Times newspaper reported.

Citing government sources, the newspaper said the compensation payments will be processed and delivered to the victims' embassies.

Three other deceased were Filipinos, and the identity of one of the victims has not been established.

The concerned embassies will then ensure that the funds are distributed to the families of those affected by the fire, expediting the process and ensuring that the assistance reaches the victims' families promptly and efficiently, it said.

"This financial aid aims to support the bereaved families during this difficult time," the newspaper said.

Kuwait's public prosecutor has launched an investigation into the incident. The probe aims to uncover the circumstances behind the incident, and what might have triggered the deadly fire, the public prosecutor said on X.

A Kuwaiti citizen and several foreigners have been arrested in connection with charges of manslaughter and causing injuries due to negligence in security and safety measures following the fire incident. PTI