Tragedy Strikes Karol Bagh: Fatal Fire Engulfs Vishal Mega Mart, Investigation Underway

A massive fire tore through a Vishal Mega Mart store in Delhi's bustling Karol Bagh area on Friday evening, leaving a community in shock and one man tragically dead. The inferno, which ignited around 6:44 PM, has prompted an extensive firefighting operation that continues more than 12 hours later, as authorities grapple with the aftermath of this devastating blaze.

Victim Identified as Rescue Efforts Continue

Police confirmed on Saturday the discovery of a body trapped inside a lift on the premises. The deceased has been identified as 25-year-old Kumar Dhirender Pratap. His body was found during a painstaking search and rescue operation, a collaborative effort by police, fire, and disaster response teams. Pratap was rushed to the hospital immediately after being recovered but was sadly declared dead upon arrival. While a swift evacuation process managed to save many, Pratap's tragic fate casts a pall over the incident.

Inferno's Grip on the Second Floor

The four-storey building, located on Padam Singh Road, houses the Vishal Mega Mart outlet, known for its wide array of grocery and fabric items. The fire, initially reported on the second floor, quickly escalated, sending thick plumes of smoke billowing into the evening sky and causing widespread chaos and panic in the densely populated market area.

Thirteen fire tenders were immediately dispatched to the scene, and firefighters have been working tirelessly through the night to bring the blaze under control. Despite their relentless efforts, the fire remains only partially contained, with the second floor still a primary focus of the operation. Videos from the scene depict the intense battle waged by the Delhi fire service, their vehicles still present and actively engaged in extinguishing the flames.

Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Investigation

As the smoke begins to clear, the cause of the fire remains unknown, adding to the anxieties of residents and local business owners. An FIR has been registered at Karol Bagh Police Station, and a thorough investigation is underway to determine the origin of this devastating incident. Authorities are yet to ascertain when the fire will be fully doused, leaving an air of uncertainty in its wake. The community now waits for answers, hoping for clarity and closure in the face of this unforeseen tragedy.