00:00KJ Ibrahim, Managing Director of the Kuwait-based NBTC group, expressed deep sorrow and commitment
00:20to support the families of the victims following a tragic fire at one of the company's accommodations
00:25in Mangaf, Kuwait.
00:27The fire, which occurred on June 12, claimed the lives of 49 workers and left 40 others
00:31receiving medical treatment.
00:34Speaking to the media three days after the incident, an emotional Ibrahim conveyed his
00:38condolences.
00:39We are so sorry.
00:40We are so sorry.
00:41I was crying in my house.
00:42I know most of them.
00:43There were people working with us for more than 27 years.
00:47What happened was really unfortunate," he said.
00:50Ibrahim assured that the company would take full responsibility and provide comprehensive
00:54support to the victims' families.
00:56This was not any mistake on our part, but still we will take responsibility.
01:00They were living and working with us.
01:01They built the company.
01:02They are our family," he stated.
01:04The company has initiated discussions with embassies to expedite the compensation process.
01:09Each affected family will receive Rs 8 lakh in addition to the company's insurance amount.
01:14Ibrahim emphasised the company's commitment to providing ongoing support and employment
01:18opportunities for the victims' families.
01:19He also clarified misconceptions about the incident, stating that the fire was caused
01:23by a short circuit in the security guard's room on the ground floor, not a gas explosion,
01:28as some reports had suggested.
01:30There was no cooking in the building, Ibrahim confirmed.
01:33He also noted that the building, which housed around 160 employees in 24 apartments, was
01:37not overcrowded and was relatively new, with free accommodation and food provided to employees.
01:44Ibrahim highlighted the company's dedication to safety and transparency, ensuring that
01:48all necessary steps are taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.
01:52NBTC has been in contact with local authorities and is cooperating fully with ongoing investigations.
01:58In addition to the company's support, the Kerala government has announced financial
02:00assistance of Rs 5 lakh for each of the deceased's families from the state.
02:05The central government has also pledged Rs 2 lakh per family.
02:09Established in 1977, NBTC Group is the largest construction company in Kuwait, involved in
02:14engineering and construction, fabrication and machining, technical services, heavy equipment
02:19leasing, logistics, hotel and retailing.
02:22K.G.
02:23Ibrahim, a prominent businessman from Niranam in Pathanam Thitta district, also manages
02:27the Crowne Plaza in Kochi and is the founder of KGA Group, which owns several establishments,
02:32including a five-star hotel in Kochi.
02:35Ibrahim is also a film producer and recently co-produced the Malayalam survival drama,
02:39Aadu Juvitham, which means Goat Life.
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