Hyderabad: At least 17 killed in major fire at building near iconic Charminar

At least 17 people have died after a massive fire broke out at a building in Gulzar House area near the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad, Telangana on Sunday (May 18). Even as the cause of fire remains unconfirmed, it is suspected that a short circuit may have led to the blaze. According to a Fire Department official, they received a call around 6:30 am regarding the incident. As many as 11 fire engines were then rushed to the spot.
Several people in the building were found in an unconscious state and shifted to various hospitals.

Union Minister visits site
After visiting the incident site, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy said the deceased included several children. "I met the (affected) family members. Such incidents are very sad. I am not accusing anyone, but police, municipality, fire and electricity departments must be made stronger," he told reporters.
"I was told the firefighters today did not have proper equipment initially. We must bring better technology in the coming days. I will talk to the central government and the prime minister and try to get financial help for the families of those who died in this incident," the minister added.

Second incident in days
Telangana Chief Minister Anumula Revanth Reddy has expressed shock over the incident and directed senior officials to take all necessary measures to rescue those trapped in the building.
The incident came just days after a huge fire broke out at a three-storey building in the Begum Bazar area of the city.
Gulzar House is a busy commercial area near Charminar, featuring a historical fountain at the center.

(With inputs from news agencies).