Hyderabad: At least 17 people died in a devastating fire in a commercial-residential building in the Gulzar House area of Hyderabad near the historic Charminar early on Saturday morning. The fire reportedly started at around 6:30 AM, sending panic waves in the densely populated area of the old city, resulting in a very quick response by emergency services.
Fire officials confirmed that they had received an emergency call soon after the fire broke out. Several fire engines were then dispatched immediately. Several people were found unconscious inside the building and were rushed to nearby hospitals. A senior doctor from one of the hospitals said eight persons were announced dead on arrival, while others were critical.
Initial investigations suggest that a short circuit may have caused the fire; however, detailed forensic probing is underway. Local authorities claim that the building did not have adequate fire safety measures, leading to questions regarding its compliance with regulations in high-density urban areas.
An AIMIM leader present at the scene stated that about 20 persons were rescued and sent to the hospital. Video footage from the location shows charred interiors with rescue teams working in thick smoke to evacuate trapped occupants.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow and announced ex gratia relief for the cause of the dead under the Prime Ministers' National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Telangana government officials have also vowed assistance and a full-fledged probe
[Source Credit: Financial Express]
