NEW DELHI: Eleven Indians, including three women, and one Georgian reportedly died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at an Indian restaurant, ‘Haveli,’ in Gudauri ski resort of Georgia, local authorities said.
The victims, all employees of the restaurant, were found in the resting area on the second floor of the establishment. Gudauri, located in the Caucasus mountains on the Georgia-Russia border, is a renowned skiing and paragliding destination.
A majority of the 11 Indians are learnt to be from the northern parts of the country. The Indian Embassy in Georgia expressed its condolences to the bereaved families and assured that it was in contact with local authorities to provide assistance. According to Georgia’s Interior Ministry, preliminary investigation suggested that a power generator, placed indoors near the bedrooms, was likely turned on after a power outage. Carbon monoxide poisoning wassuspected as no signs of injuries or violence were found on the bodies, it said.
Power generators are meant to be used outdoors to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from exhaust fumes. A forensic medical examination has been ordered to confirm the cause of death. The case is being investigated under Article 116 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which pertains to negligent manslaughter.