Tragic Methanol Poisoning in Kuwait Claims Lives and Causes Blindness

Severe Consequences of Contaminated Alcohol

A recent incident in Kuwait involving methanol poisoning from tainted alcohol has resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, with at least 21 others suffering from blindness, as reported by the health ministry. Many victims have been hospitalized since the weekend after consuming illicit liquor, with a significant number being Indian nationals.

Reports indicate that nearly 63 people have been admitted to medical facilities since Saturday, exhibiting symptoms of poisoning. Out of these, approximately 51 patients require urgent kidney dialysis, while 31 are on mechanical ventilation to assist with breathing. Health officials noted that these individuals had ingested alcohol produced in illegal distilleries, where safety regulations are virtually non-existent.

The impact of this poisoning has been devastating, leading to fatalities and long-lasting health issues for survivors. Methanol, a hazardous industrial alcohol, poses risks of permanent blindness, organ failure, and death.

Indians Among the Victims

On August 13, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait reported that around 40 Indian nationals had been hospitalized in recent days. Some have died, while others remain in critical condition or are recovering, according to a statement on social media. Embassy officials are coordinating with Kuwaiti authorities to gather more information about the victims and their medical care.

While Kuwaiti officials have not disclosed the nationalities of the deceased, media sources suggest that some victims may include Malaysians, Tamilians, and a few Nepalese citizens.

Kuwait has maintained a strict prohibition on alcohol imports since 1964, and in the 1980s, laws were enacted to criminalize alcohol consumption, imposing fines and imprisonment as penalties. Despite this, the production and consumption of illicit alcohol persist in the country.

The Gulf nation is home to a large expatriate community, many of whom are employed in construction, domestic work, and retail. Workers from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka constitute a significant part of this labor force, and these migrant groups often resort to consuming illegal alcohol due to the lack of legal options.