Hyderabad Tragedy: In a heart-wrenching incident that shook Hyderabad awake, at least 17 people lost their lives after a massive fire broke out in a multi-storey building near the city’s historic Charminar on Sunday morning. Several others have sustained critical injuries and are undergoing treatment at nearby hospitals.
Though the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, preliminary reports suggest a short circuit could have triggered the blaze. The incident has left the city mourning, with both state and central leaders stepping in to ensure relief and accountability.
Fire Breaks Out Near Charminar at Dawn
According to fire department officials, a distress call was received at around 6:30 AM, following which fire engines and rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the spot. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise and seeing smoke billow out of the building, which housed both commercial and residential units.
Local residents and shopkeepers described scenes of chaos and panic as people tried to escape the engulfing flames. Many were trapped inside as thick smoke made evacuation difficult.
“We heard screams from inside, and before we could act, the smoke took over the entire staircase. People tried to jump from windows,” said Mohammed Rahim, a shopkeeper in the area.
17 Lives Lost, Rescue Operations Continue
So far, 17 people have been confirmed dead, while several others are being treated for burn injuries and smoke inhalation. The number of casualties may rise as rescue operations continue, with firefighters trying to access the upper floors of the building.
Multiple teams from the fire department and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are working tirelessly to clear the debris and locate anyone who may still be trapped inside.
“We suspect a short circuit caused the fire, but investigations are ongoing,” a fire official told reporters.
Leaders Express Grief, Promise Support
Union Minister G Kishan Reddy expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and said he will coordinate with the Centre for financial aid to affected families.
“Such incidents are very sad and painful. I will speak to the Prime Minister and central government officials to secure financial assistance for the families of the deceased, and ensure proper treatment for the injured,” he said.
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also expressed shock and directed authorities to intensify rescue and relief efforts.
“I have instructed the district administration to provide immediate medical attention to the injured and take steps to prevent such tragedies in the future,” he said in a public statement.
Investigation Ordered, Safety Under Scrutiny
Officials have launched a preliminary probe into the incident, focusing on whether the building had adequate fire safety measures. Concerns have been raised about older structures in densely populated areas like Charminar, many of which are vulnerable to fire hazards due to faulty wiring, lack of ventilation, and poor emergency access.
This incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for stricter enforcement of fire safety norms, especially in mixed-use buildings combining commercial shops and residential units.
“This should be a wake-up call. Too many buildings around Charminar are fire hazards waiting to happen,” said local activist S. Iqbal.
Community Rallies Together
In the aftermath of the fire, local NGOs and citizen groups have stepped up to help, providing food, water, and medical supplies to rescue workers and affected families. Blood donation drives are being organized for the injured undergoing treatment.
The area around the building has been cordoned off and traffic rerouted to facilitate rescue operations.
A City in Mourning
Hyderabad, a city known for its vibrant heritage and community spirit, woke up today to scenes of despair. As families grieve and the community processes the scale of the tragedy, questions about urban safety, emergency preparedness, and building regulations loom large.
As rescue teams continue their tireless work and officials probe the cause, the immediate focus remains on saving lives, supporting the injured, and preventing another such tragedy in the heart of one of India’s oldest and most iconic urban landscapes.
