A devastating fire erupted in a four-storey building in the Vivek Vihar area of Shahdara district in Delhi early Wednesday morning. According to officials, at least three to four bodies have been recovered from the site, and rescue operations are ongoing.
Fire Breaks Out in Early Morning Hours
The fire department received an alert around 4 AM, prompting multiple fire tenders to rush to the location. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Shahdara District, Rajendra Prasad Meena, confirmed that the fire was brought under control after a swift response. "Early in the morning, we got a call about a fire. Fire tenders rushed to the spot and brought the fire under control. 3-4 bodies have been recovered from here. We're still searching," Meena told news agency ANI.
Residents Recount the Incident
A resident who witnessed the incident stated that a blast in an air conditioner triggered the fire. "A blast in the AC triggered the fire. Around 12-15 people were rescued. However, 4-5 people are still missing. The fire started at around 03:13 am. Fire tenders arrived at around 3:35 am. Efforts are being made to extinguish the fire," the resident said.
Another resident, Charanjit Singh, provided further details: "More than 10 vehicles (fire tenders) arrived. The fire brigade rescued around 20 people through the balcony. But I think some people from the backside flats were still able to come outside. I think 1 or 2 families are still under the building."
Rescue Operations Underway
Rescue teams are continuing their search for any remaining individuals trapped in the building. The exact number of casualties and injuries is yet to be confirmed, but authorities are working diligently to ensure all residents are accounted for. The cause of the fire is under investigation, with initial reports suggesting an electrical short circuit may have triggered the blast.
The incident has raised concerns about fire safety in residential buildings in the capital. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any potential hazards.
