The recent inferno at the Corniche Hypermarket Mall in Kut has left at least 55 people dead and many injured. Emergency responders continue to search for missing individuals, while officials announce forthcoming legal actions and a thorough review of safety measures.
Tragic Fire Claims Lives at Newly Opened Shopping Centre in Kut, Iraq
Tragic Fire Claims Lives at Newly Opened Shopping Centre in Kut, Iraq
A catastrophic fire in a recently inaugurated mall in Kut has resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries, prompting urgent investigations and safety reassessments.
A devastating fire erupted at the Corniche Hypermarket Mall in the Iraqi city of Kut, just five days after its grand opening, resulting in a harrowing toll of at least 55 deaths and numerous injuries, according to reports from state media. The blaze broke out on Wednesday night but has since been brought under control by firefighters engaged in rescue operations.
Authorities, including regional governor Mohammed al-Miyahi, expressed their deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a "tragedy and calamity." He revealed plans for legal action against the mall's owner in light of the catastrophic event. Eyewitness videos circulated on INA's news channel depict fierce flames consuming multiple floors of the multi-storey building, while firefighters made valiant attempts to extinguish the fire.
In interviews, survivors recounted desperate attempts to escape as chaos unfolded. Dr. Nasir al-Quraishi tragically lost five family members, sharing his grief as he explained how an exploding air conditioner on the second floor triggered the blaze. "We couldn't escape it," he lamented, recalling that they had visited the mall to enjoy dinner away from home power outages.
As ambulances continue to rush the injured to local hospitals, rescuers remain on high alert as they search for additional missing persons among the wreckage. A medical source indicated that there are many unidentified bodies, reinforcing the tragic scale of the disaster.
An investigation into the fire’s cause is now underway, with preliminary findings expected in the coming days. Governor al-Miyahi emphasized the need for a "serious review of all safety measures," signaling a commitment to accountability and reform in the wake of this shocking incident.
This unfolding event highlights the urgent need for stringent safety protocols in public spaces, particularly in a region grappling with various crises. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities, emphasizing a critical need for comprehensive safety regulations and enforcement. As more information emerges, the impact of this tragedy will resonate across the region.
