Hyderabad faced a heartbreaking tragedy after a fire broke out in a building near Charminar, killing 17 members of one family. A quick investigation by the Telangana Fire Services confirmed a short circuit as the cause of the deadly blaze.
The fire started in a three-storey building at Gulzar Houz, which housed Sri Krishna Pearls on the ground floor and residential units above. According to Y Nagi Reddy, Director General of Telangana Fire Disaster Response and Emergency Services, the victims died due to smoke inhalation, not burns.
Firefighters faced major obstacles during the rescue. The building had just one narrow staircase, less than a meter wide, located near the fire’s origin. This stairwell quickly filled with thick smoke and intense heat, blocking the only escape route.
To make matters worse, the ground floor was crowded with parked bikes, which fueled the fire and blocked exits. The building had no alternate staircase or emergency exit. There were also no windows or doors facing the street, making it impossible to use hydraulic platforms for fast entry or smoke ventilation.
In a desperate effort to save lives, firefighters drilled a hole through a wall on the first floor to enter the upper levels. While battling flames on the ground floor, they launched rescue operations above.
Despite these challenges, the Fire Department’s quick response helped contain the fire and prevented it from spreading to nearby buildings. This swift action likely saved more lives and reduced further property damage.
In total, 12 fire units were deployed to the scene. The operation included 11 emergency vehicles, one fire-fighting robot, and 70 personnel, led by 17 officers.
Advanced equipment like the Bronto Sky Lift Hydraulic Platform and fire robot were crucial in managing the intense blaze and reaching trapped residents.
This incident highlights the urgent need for better fire safety measures, especially in older buildings with poor infrastructure.
