Tragic Fire Claims Lives of 17 in Hyderabad's Gulzar House

A devastating fire at Gulzar House near Charminar in Hyderabad resulted in the tragic loss of 17 lives, including eight children. The incident, believed to be caused by a short circuit, turned a family gathering into a nightmare as toxic smoke engulfed the building. Eyewitness accounts reveal the challenges faced during the evacuation, with only one narrow staircase available. Prime Minister Modi and local officials have expressed their condolences and announced compensation for the victims' families. Investigations are ongoing as the community grapples with this heartbreaking event.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 19, 2025, 13:10 IST

Devastating Fire in Hyderabad

A severe fire broke out early Sunday morning at the 'Gulzar House' building near the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad, reportedly due to a suspected short circuit. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of 17 family members, including eight children. What was meant to be a joyful summer holiday turned into an unimaginable disaster as toxic smoke quickly filled the building.

Casualties and Response

All the victims were related, and authorities believe the fire was likely caused by an electrical short circuit. A senior police official confirmed that all 17 individuals transported to the hospital were declared dead. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the loss of life in the fire and announced compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.

Challenges in Evacuation

An official from the fire department noted that the only exit from the building was a narrow staircase, which hindered a swift evacuation. The police reported that jewelry shops occupied the ground floor, while residents lived on the upper floors. As smoke spread, many began to suffocate.

Community Impact

Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimin (AIMIM) and MP from Hyderabad, stated that the family had lived in the building for 125 years, indicating their deep roots in the community. He mentioned that the family operated one of the city's oldest jewelry stores.

Investigation and Official Statements

Owaisi expressed his condolences, revealing that most deaths were due to smoke inhalation. Hyderabad's police commissioner, C.V. Anand, noted that many buildings in the area are between 100 to 200 years old. Y. Nagi Reddy, the Director General of Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services, inspected the site and reported that the fire was first seen between 6:00 and 6:15 AM, with the fire department alerted at 6:16 AM.

Government Response

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed his condolences and instructed senior officials to take all necessary measures to rescue those trapped. An official statement from the Chief Minister's Office indicated that an investigation into the fire incident at Gulzar House has been ordered. Reddy praised the fire department for their quick response, which prevented further loss of life.

Compensation and Community Support

The Deputy Chief Minister, Bhatti Vikramarka, announced that the state government would provide ₹5 lakh to the families of the deceased. Governor Vishnu Dev Verma also extended his heartfelt condolences to the victims' families. Minister Ponnam Prabhakar visited the site and confirmed that the fire was caused by a short circuit, noting that four related families lived in the building, many of whom were on holiday.

Eyewitness Accounts

An eyewitness, Zahid, who operates a bangle business in the area, recounted that around 6:10 AM, a woman alerted him about the fire, indicating that family members and children were trapped inside. He described how they attempted to break through the shutter and wall to enter the building but were unable to save anyone due to the intensity of the flames. Zahid recalled seeing a woman holding her child, both of whom had perished in the fire.

Ongoing Investigation

The police have registered a case regarding the incident. Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy also visited the site and alleged that the fire trucks arrived late. However, the fire service's director general dismissed these claims.