Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Friday visited traders who suffered losses in the devastating fire at D-Park Market in Rohtak. He expressed condolences to the families of the three individuals who lost their lives in the blaze.
Hooda Demands Enhanced Relief
As traders began submitting compensation applications, Hooda inquired about the extent of their losses and termed the relief announced by the state government as inadequate. He demanded that victims receive full compensation and that arrangements be made for the reconstruction of their shops. Additionally, he called for a government job to be provided to each family that lost a loved one in the tragedy.
Hooda further stated that the damage could have been minimized if the Fire Department had been fully equipped. He highlighted that 50% of firefighter posts in the state are vacant, with recruitment stalled for two and a half years.
Fire Department Failures
According to Hooda, the condition of fire engines is poor. One vehicle broke down while attempting to douse flames at D-Park and failed to spray water. The water pressure of the first vehicle was too low to be effective, and it took the second vehicle nearly 50 minutes to arrive, by which time significant damage had already occurred.
Responding to media queries, Hooda pointed out that the fire station had been relocated outside the city. He emphasized the need for a fire station within city limits to ensure prompt assistance.
“Reports of fire incidents are continuously emerging across the country, causing severe loss of life and property. Governments, including that of Haryana, must ensure that the Fire Department remains fully alert and equipped with all necessary gear to swiftly control fires, even in the most inaccessible areas,” Hooda said.
Deputy Speaker Announces Relief
Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, accompanied by former minister Manish Grover, inspected D-Park Market on Friday and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and property. Describing the incident as tragic, he visited the homes of the three deceased individuals and offered condolences to their families.
Middha announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each from his discretionary fund to the affected families. He also interacted with shopkeepers, gathering information about their losses, and advised all shopkeepers to install fire extinguishers in their establishments to quickly control emergency situations.
