Hyderabad faced a tragic incident early Sunday morning when a massive fire broke out at a building near Gulzar House, close to the historic Charminar. The blaze claimed the lives of 17 people, highlighting serious gaps in the city’s fire safety standards.
The fire started in a mixed-use building that housed both homes and shops. Due to poor safety measures, the flames spread quickly. There were no fire extinguishers, emergency exits, or proper ventilation systems in place, which made it difficult for people to escape.
This heartbreaking event has triggered fresh concern over fire safety across Hyderabad. According to the Hyderabad Fire Services Department, the city has already seen nearly 2,500 fire incidents in 2024, causing property damages worth over Rs 822 crore. Over the last five years, more than 6,000 fires have occurred, resulting in 46 deaths and losses of more than Rs 120 crore.
Officials say most of these incidents could have been avoided. Common causes include faulty wiring, overloaded power outlets, illegal storage of flammable items, and lack of safety equipment. In many older buildings, especially in crowded areas, these issues remain unchecked.
In the case of Gulzar House, early investigations revealed that the fire spread rapidly due to a lack of fire prevention tools and emergency planning. These problems are not limited to one building—they are widespread in many parts of the city.
Fire safety officers are now urging people to take simple but crucial steps to protect lives and property. These include:
– Regular checks of electrical systems
– Installing smoke detectors and fire alarms
– Keeping fire extinguishers in working condition on every floor
– Ensuring clear and accessible exit routes
Under current regulations, all commercial buildings must submit an annual fire safety audit. However, enforcement is weak, and many owners ignore these rules.
Experts are calling for stronger inspections and increased public awareness. They believe that only with strict monitoring and responsible community action can future disasters be prevented.
This fire at Gulzar House serves as a painful reminder: ignoring basic fire safety can lead to irreversible loss.
