Lohri Celebrations Turn Tragic in Amritsar
A joyous Lohri celebration ended in tragedy in Amritsar's Chuhar Gali. A bonfire lit for the festival sparked a devastating blaze. The fire claimed the lives of a father and his young daughter. The incident occurred during the evening festivities on Thursday.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Residents gathered to mark Lohri with a traditional bonfire. Flames from the fire quickly spread to nearby structures. The intense heat and smoke engulfed the area. The father and daughter became trapped inside their home. Firefighters rushed to the scene after receiving distress calls.
They battled the flames for several hours. Rescue teams pulled the victims from the burning building. Both were rushed to a local hospital. Doctors declared them dead upon arrival. The identities of the deceased have not been officially released yet.
Community Response and Investigation
Neighbors expressed shock and grief over the loss. Many described the family as well-liked in the locality. Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest the bonfire was too close to residential buildings. Authorities are examining if safety protocols were followed.
Local officials visited the site to assess the damage. They offered condolences to the bereaved family. The tragedy has cast a pall over the festive mood in Chuhar Gali. Residents are now calling for stricter enforcement of fire safety rules during festivals.
Fire Safety Concerns During Festivals
This incident raises serious questions about fire safety during Indian festivals. Lohri bonfires are a common tradition in Punjab. They often involve large piles of wood and other combustible materials. Many celebrations take place in densely populated urban areas.
Fire department officials urge caution when lighting bonfires. They recommend keeping a safe distance from buildings. Having fire extinguishers or water sources nearby is essential. Supervising children around open flames is critical. Public awareness campaigns may help prevent such tragedies in the future.
The Amritsar administration plans to review safety guidelines for festive events. They aim to ensure compliance with existing regulations. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by uncontrolled fires.
