Deadly Blaze in Hyderabad: Blocked Exits and Electrical Fault Blamed for 17 Deaths

In a heartbreaking incident, a fire broke out near Charminar in Hyderabad on Sunday morning, performing in the deaths of 17 family members. A short circuit likely caused the fire at the' Gulzar House' structure which stands lower than 100 metres from Charminar.

What caused the fire?

Authorities suspect that a short circuit may have sparked the Hyderabad fire. The victims passed away from inhaling toxic smoke not from burns. The building's windows remained closed likely due to the air conditioners operating and there being a single entry point.

The school holidays brought a joyful family gathering which ended in tragedy. The building held 21 individuals when the fire broke out and 17 people lost their lives. Among the victims are eight children who were less than ten years old.

The report lists Prahlad (70), Iraaj (2), Munni (70), Rajendar (65), Sumitra (60), Hamye (7), Abhishek (31), Sheetal (35), Priyans (4), Arushi (3), Rishabh (4), Pratham (1), Anuyan (3), Varsha (35), Pankaj (36), Rajjini (32), and Iddu (4) as family members who died in the tragedy.

"Today, upon receiving information at 06: The Moghalpura water tender and its crew raced to Gulzar House Chowrasta, Charminar after receiving notification at 06:16 am about a fire at the G+2 building. A fire started on the building's ground level before expanding to the higher floors.

How the building made things worse

The building's narrow construction combined with sealed windows created escape challenges for occupants when the Gulzar House fire started. Only one entry point existed which likely trapped many residents inside without escape options. The report stated that most victims were unconscious from smoke inhalation when help reached them.

Rescue efforts and response

The emergency response composed of at least 11 fire engines and a firefighting robot reached the site to tackle the incident. Local residents claimed that the fire engines used up their water supply while officials made statements confirming that this did not happen. The fire engines held 4,500 litres of water each and the city’s corporation provided additional water supply.

The local shopkeepers reported that electrical problems including voltage spikes might have triggered the fire. The lower level of Gulzar House houses pearl retailers and local business owners report multiple fires in this location lately.