Tragic Fire in Himachal Pradesh Claims Young Life and Leaves Many Missing

A catastrophic fire in Arki town, Himachal Pradesh, has resulted in the tragic death of a seven-year-old child and left several individuals missing. The blaze intensified due to multiple LPG cylinder explosions, complicating rescue efforts. Local authorities, including police and disaster response teams, are actively working to locate those trapped. The incident has drawn condolences from state leaders, who are urging for immediate assistance to affected families and swift action for rehabilitation. This heartbreaking event has shaken the community, prompting calls for support and recovery efforts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 13:27 IST

Devastating Fire in Arki Town

Shimla, Jan 12: A tragic incident occurred early Monday in Arki town, located in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district, where a massive fire resulted in the death of a seven-year-old child. The blaze also left several individuals, including two women and four children, feared trapped within the residential buildings near the old bus stand area.

The situation escalated when multiple LPG cylinders exploded, causing the flames to spread rapidly, complicating efforts by firefighters to bring the situation under control.

According to Solan Superintendent of Police (SP) Gaurav Singh, both police and fire brigade teams are actively engaged in rescue operations at the scene.

Additionally, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been dispatched to expedite the relief efforts.

Local legislator Sanjay Awasthi reported that eight to nine individuals are believed to be trapped in the fire.

It was noted that the deceased child was part of a family of migrant workers.

Officials indicated that the explosion of six to seven cylinders exacerbated the fire, leading to significant damage to surrounding properties.

State BJP President Rajiv Bindal and Member of Parliament Suresh Kashyap expressed their condolences regarding the incident, stating that it has deeply affected the entire state.

They remarked, “The untimely loss of the child is profoundly tragic. We pray for peace for the departed soul and strength for the grieving family during this difficult time.”

They also called on the administration to intensify the search for the missing individuals and to provide immediate assistance to the affected families.

Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur, and MP Anurag Thakur also conveyed their sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the family of the deceased child and hoping for the swift recovery of those injured and missing.

The BJP leadership emphasized the need for prompt measures to support the rehabilitation and compensation of those traders and families who have suffered significant financial losses due to this tragedy.