Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: A devastating early morning fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar claimed nine lives after a residential building turned into a death trap due to sealed iron grills and a locked terrace that blocked escape routes.
How Safety Measures Became Fatal Barriers
The fire broke out around 3:45 am, reportedly due to a short circuit on the second floor, and rapidly spread across all four floors. Most residents were asleep, making evacuation difficult. Iron grills installed on the building’s facade and a locked terrace prevented people from escaping, trapping several inside.
Rescue Operations Faced Major Challenges
Fire officials said structural obstacles significantly hampered rescue efforts, especially in the dark early hours. Fourteen fire engines were deployed, and teams managed to rescue 15 people, but nine residents could not be saved. Authorities confirmed that some victims were unable to unlock exits in time, leading to the fatalities.
Investigation Underway
The bodies have been sent to GTB Hospital for identification, and officials are investigating the exact cause of the blaze. The incident has raised serious concerns about fire safety compliance in residential buildings.
