A devastating fire swept through a six-storey building housing migrant workers in southern Kuwait early Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of 40 Indians and injuring many others.

Local reports indicate the blaze began around 6 am in a kitchen within the Mangaf city building. "The building was densely populated with workers, leading to significant casualties from smoke inhalation," a senior police commander shared with state TV, as quoted by Reuters.

The building housed nearly 160 people, many of whom were Indian nationals, according to PTI. Rescue efforts saved dozens, but the fire's swift spread and intense smoke claimed numerous lives.

Indian Ambassador Adarsh Swaika visited Al-Adan hospital, where over 30 injured Indian workers are being treated. "He assured patients of full support from the Embassy, with hospital authorities reporting most are in stable condition," the Indian embassy stated.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his condolences to the victims' families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. "Our Embassy will provide complete assistance to all affected," he affirmed.

Authorities are investigating the fire's cause, with a police official highlighting issues of overcrowding in worker housing. "We consistently warn against overcrowding," he noted.

The Kuwaiti health ministry reported 43 hospitalizations due to the fire, including four post-admission deaths. It remains unclear if these deaths are part of the initial count of 40 fatalities.

Kuwait's Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah has ordered the arrest of the building's owner, janitor, and the company responsible for housing the workers.