A fire that broke out in a building housing workers in the city of Mangaf in southern Kuwait early on Wednesday has killed at least 41 people, the country's deputy prime minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah said during a visit to the site, reports Reuters.

The deputy PM accused real estate owners of violations and greed, saying those factors contributed towards the incident.

"Unfortunately, the greed of real estate owners is what leads to these matters," said Sheikh Fahad, who also runs the interior and defense ministries.

The fire was reported to authorities at 6:00 a.m. local time (0300 GMT), Major General Eid Rashed Hamad said.

"The building in which the fire occurred was used to house workers, and there was a large number of workers there. Dozens were rescued, but unfortunately there were many deaths as a result of inhaling smoke from the fire," another senior police commander told state TV.

"We always alert and warn against" cramming too many workers into housing accommodation, he said, without providing details on the workers' type of employment or place of origin.

The fire was contained and authorities were investigating its cause, officials said.

Deeply shocked: Indian External Affairs Minister

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday expressed deep shock over death of over 40 people in the city of Kuwait, reports PTI.

"Deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait city. There are reportedly over 40 deaths and over 50 have been hospitalized," Jaishankar said on X.

A majority of the victims are learnt to be Indians.

The Indian Ambassador to Kuwait has gone to the camp that caught fire.

"We are awaiting further information. Deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives. Wish early and full recovery to those who have been injured," Jaishankar said.

"Our Embassy will render the fullest assistance to all concerned in this regard," he said.