Maputo, 5 Jun (AIM) – At least two Mozambican nationals were identified among the 21 people who have been killed and dozens injured after a major fire broke out through a multi-storey building in south Delhi.
According to Indian authorities, during the tragedy, over 40 people were rescued and taken to hospital. Many of the victims were foreigners – including people from South Asian and African countries – who had travelled to India for medical treatment or to accompany relatives undergoing care.
The building in the Malviya Nagar area allegedly operated as a bed-and-breakfast catering to patients and relatives of those receiving treatment at a nearby private hospital.
According to Ussene Isse, Health Minister, speaking to reporters on Thursday, in Maputo, when the government became aware of the tragic event, it immediately activated support mechanisms, including consular ones, and established constant contact with local authorities to identify those affected, amongst other actions.
“Consular support and assistance mechanisms have been activated, maintaining constant contact with local authorities to gather and confirm information, identify the affected citizens, and provide support to their families”, he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cited by the BBC, expressed his condolences and announced compensation of 200,000 rupees (2,088 and US dollars at the current exchange rate) for the families of those killed and 50,000 rupees for those injured.
The Indian authorities also said that they were investigating whether the building had the necessary permissions to operate as a bed-and-breakfast facility, adding that those found responsible for any violations would face criminal action.
(AIM)
Mz/Am/
