New Delhi: A massive fire that broke out in a four story building in Sadh Nagar of Palam in the southwest Delhi area of the capital this morning destroyed an entire family. The fire started from a short circuit on the ground floor, a groundwater pump shorted and the flames quickly spread to the upper floors. The smoke was so thick that breathing became difficult, and family members were trapped inside. This accident happened in the ‘Pravesh Building’ near Ram Chowk market, where the family had a cosmetic showroom below and a house above.
How did the fire start and why did it spread so fast?
A short circuit is being said to be the main reason, there was a short in the water pump (ground water) on the ground floor, and the fire started and reached up through the stairs and walls. The smoke was so much that people could not come out. Due to the building being old and in narrow streets, rescue was also difficult. Flames and smoke together wove a web of death.
How many people were trapped and how did they die?
About 9-10 people from the same family were trapped inside the building. Fire brigade and police tried their best to rescue them, but by then the situation had worsened. 7 people lost their lives, including three small children. It is being told that most of the people died due to suffocation due to smoke and burning in the fire. The family mustered courage and tried to save two children by throwing them down from the first floor, they were injured but their lives were saved. A total of three children are injured and are undergoing treatment at Divya Prastha Hospital in Palam.
How did the rescue go?
As soon as the fire was reported in the morning, fire brigade, police and ambulance teams immediately reached the spot. About 25-30 fire engines were deployed, but due to narrow streets, some vehicles had to be parked at a distance. Despite this, the firefighters tried continuously, controlled the fire and even succeeded in taking some people out. It was becoming difficult again and again to go inside due to smoke. Now the fire has been completely extinguished, but there is deep sadness and silence in the entire area.
What was revealed?
The house is said to belong to Rajendra Kashyap, who lived with the family. His showroom of cosmetics and other goods ran below, the family lived on the upper floors. It was a joint family, where many people were together. Police are now investigating what was the real cause of the fire, whether it was just a short circuit or some negligence, like not checking the wiring. Fire department and police are on the spot, postmortem and investigation are ongoing.
What lesson will be learned?
This incident is again raising questions on the frequent fire incidents in Delhi, short circuits in old buildings, lack of fire safety equipment, and lack of inspection. Do houses have smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and proper wiring checks? Preparations to prevent such accidents in the capital still seem weak, these deaths are reminding us how small carelessness can cause huge devastation.
