Hyderabad Charminar Fire Tragedy: 17 Dead, Rescue Efforts Underway
Hyderabad, India ( OT Webdesk)– In a heart-wrenching tragedy, a devastating fire engulfed a commercial-residential building near Hyderabad’s iconic Charminar early Saturday morning, claiming at least 17 lives, including a seven-year-old girl.
The inferno erupted around 6:30 a.m. in the historic Gulzar House area, known for its century-old jewellery shops.
Authorities suspect a short circuit as the cause, though official confirmation is pending. The fire spread rapidly, fueled by the densely packed buildings in the area.
Eleven fire engines were deployed to battle the flames. While firefighters fought valiantly, reports indicate that they lacked proper equipment, raising concerns about disaster preparedness in the city.
Several injured victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy promising the best medical care for survivors.
Union Minister G Kishan Reddy visited the site and pledged to advocate for central assistance for those affected.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, announcing ₹2 lakh ex gratia for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Congress MP M Anil Kumar Yadav praised rescue workers for their dedication in controlling the blaze.
An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the fire and identify potential safety lapses in the area.
As Hyderabad mourns, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for enhanced fire safety measures in densely populated commercial zones.
