A devastating fire broke out in a residential building in southeast Delhi's Govindpuri-Tughlakabad Extension area early Friday, claiming the lives of three people and leaving at least two others critically injured. The incident triggered a major rescue operation involving the Delhi Fire Service, police, and local residents.
According to officials, the fire engulfed a multi-storey residential building during the early hours of the morning. Firefighters rushed to the scene after receiving an emergency call and deployed multiple fire tenders to contain the blaze. Thick smoke quickly spread through the building, trapping several occupants inside and creating panic among residents.
Rescue teams worked for several hours to evacuate those trapped in the structure. Five women were successfully rescued from the building, while several injured residents were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities confirmed that three people lost their lives in the incident, while two victims remain in critical condition. At least eight people were reported injured overall.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as residents attempted to escape the smoke-filled building. Some occupants reportedly moved to balconies and windows seeking help while firefighters battled the flames from multiple sides. Emergency personnel used ladders and specialized equipment to reach those stranded on upper floors.
The exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Officials have launched an investigation to establish whether the blaze was triggered by an electrical fault, negligence, or another factor. Fire and police teams are expected to conduct a detailed inspection of the building once the site is declared safe.
The tragedy comes amid growing concerns over fire safety in Delhi following a series of recent fire incidents in residential and commercial buildings. Authorities have intensified inspections of structures suspected of violating safety norms, particularly after several deadly fires in the capital over the past few weeks.
Senior police and fire officials visited the site to monitor rescue and relief operations. The identities of the deceased are being verified, and support is being provided to affected families. Authorities have urged residents to follow fire safety guidelines and ensure that emergency exits and electrical systems in residential buildings are properly maintained.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on determining the cause of the blaze and preventing similar tragedies in the future.