Three people, including a 22-year-old man and two women, died and two others remain in critical condition following a fire in a Tughlakabad residential building in southeast Delhi early Friday morning. According to officials, the blaze began around 2:30 a.m. in a ground-floor parking area, likely due to an electrical short circuit.
How did the Tughlakabad fire start?
An initial inquiry suggests the fire started because of an electrical short circuit on the ground floor, officials said. The flames quickly engulfed seven parked two-wheelers, including an electric scooter that was being charged at the time.
The fire broke out in the parking area of a building located at Gali No. 1 in Tughlakabad. The structure consists of a ground floor and five upper storeys. According to Delhi Fire Services (DFS) officials, thick smoke rapidly spread through the building’s stairwell and upper floors, trapping several residents inside.
Did You Know? The fire engulfed seven parked two-wheelers, including an electric scooter that was being charged at the time.
What was the rescue operation?
Local police, including the SHO, ACP, and additional DCPs, arrived at the scene to assist with rescue operations. Four fire tenders and CATS ambulances were pressed into service to manage the emergency.
Firefighters rescued five occupants from inside the building and shifted them to nearby hospitals. During the operation, DFS personnel climbed to the terrace and cut open a locked gate to rescue two girls who had fled to the rooftop to escape the smoke, officials said. Another person was subsequently rescued as the operation continued.
Eight residents in total were rescued and rushed to Safdarjung Hospital and the AIIMS Trauma Centre. Officials said the blaze was brought under control around 3:45 a.m. and was completely doused by 4:00 a.m.
Expert Insight: The rapid spread of smoke through the building’s stairwell and the involvement of charging electric vehicles highlight the critical safety stakes in high-density residential buildings.
What may happen next?
A formal investigation into the electrical short circuit is a possible next step for authorities. Following the conclusion of the inquiry, officials may review safety protocols regarding the charging of electric vehicles in residential parking areas.
How does this compare to recent Delhi fires?
This incident follows a separate, massive blaze that occurred on June 3 in a bed and breakfast facility in Hauz Rani. In that earlier event, 23 people were killed, according to official reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who were the victims in the Tughlakabad fire? The deceased included a 22-year-old man and two women, according to officials.
- Where were the rescued residents taken? Eight residents were rushed to Safdarjung Hospital and the AIIMS Trauma Centre.
- What is the suspected cause of the blaze? Initial inquiries suggest the fire may have started due to an electrical short circuit on the ground floor.
What safety measures should be prioritized in residential buildings with ground-floor parking?