A tragic incident unfolded in Gudauri, Georgia, as 12 individuals, including 11 Indian nationals, lost their lives due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in a ski resort. The devastating event has left families shattered and highlighted the risks faced by migrant workers seeking a better future abroad.
The victims were found on the second floor of a building housing an Indian restaurant. Early reports indicate that the cause of death was carbon monoxide exposure, possibly due to heating issues amidst a snowstorm. Local authorities and the Indian embassy in Tbilisi have launched an investigation into the incident.
The Indian embassy expressed its condolences in a statement, pledging full support to the bereaved families and collaboration with Georgian officials to identify the deceased and assist in repatriating their remains. &ldquo;Deepest condolences to the bereaved families. The mission is in touch with local authorities to fetch details of the victims and ensure all possible assistance is given,&rdquo; the statement read.
Among the victims was Sameer Kumar, a 26-year-old from Bilaan Wali Chhappri in Punjab&rsquo;s Khanna district. Sameer, who arrived in Georgia just months ago, was working above the restaurant where the tragedy occurred. He had planned to celebrate his 27th birthday on Saturday. Like every night, he had called his mother before heading to bed, unaware it would be their last conversation. His brother, Gurdeep Kumar, now faces the daunting task of bringing Sameer&rsquo;s body home. &ldquo;We are shattered and feel abandoned. We don&rsquo;t know how to bring my brother&rsquo;s body back,&rdquo; Gurdeep said.
Ravinder Kumar, another victim, hailed from Kot Ramdass in Punjab&rsquo;s Jalandhar district. Ravinder leaves behind his wife, Kumari Kanchan, two daughters, and a son. Kanchan recalled &ldquo;He had not visited Punjab since moving to Georgia after three years in Dubai,&rdquo; she said. Ravinder worked as a billing accountant in the restaurant.
The victims&rsquo; stories reflect a common thread of sacrifice, longing, and aspirations for a better life. Many had not visited their families for years, staying abroad to provide financial support. Now, these families are left with memories and the challenging task of bringing their loved ones home for their final rites.
As the investigation continues, the incident underscores the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers and the need for greater safety measures in workplaces and accommodations. The Indian embassy, along with Georgian authorities, is working to expedite the repatriation process, ensuring the victims&rsquo; families can bid them a proper farewell.

Indian nationals among 12 victims of carbon monoxide poisoning at Gudauri ski resort

Punjab Families Mourn: 12 Lives Lost in Georgia

Indian nationals among 12 victims of carbon monoxide poisoning at Gudauri ski resort

December 18, 2024 | 06:57 IST