A horrific fire early Sunday morning engulfed a historic building near Hyderabad’s iconic Charminar, claiming 17 lives, including eight children. The blaze, suspected to have started due to a short circuit, caused dense smoke to fill the structure, leading to fatalities primarily from asphyxiation.
The affected building housed jewelry shops on the ground floor with residential flats above. Many victims were members of a family that had lived there for generations. As smoke rapidly spread, the single narrow staircase became the only escape, proving fatal for many trapped inside.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but questions have emerged over the timeliness of the rescue operation. Officials have promised a full investigation. Compensation for the victims’ families has been announced by both state and central governments. The city remains in mourning as the community reels from the tragic loss.