Massive Fire Engulfs Slum in Ghaziabad, Several Children Reported Missing
Devastating Blaze in Kanawani Village
In Ghaziabad, a catastrophic fire broke out in the slums of Kanawani village, consuming over 500 shanties in a matter of moments. The flames were so intense that they could be seen from a distance, causing panic among local residents. Reports indicate that several children are currently unaccounted for.
The incident occurred around noon on Thursday in the Indirapuram police jurisdiction. Eyewitnesses reported that the fire spread rapidly, leading to chaos in the area. Initial assessments suggest that approximately six children may be missing, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
As the fire raged, gas cylinders stored in the shanties began to explode one after another, sending shockwaves through the community. The sound of these blasts heightened the fear among the residents. Emergency services, including local police and multiple fire brigade teams, arrived promptly to tackle the situation.
Dozens of fire engines have been deployed to control the blaze, which is expected to take several hours to extinguish due to its extensive reach. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but preliminary information suggests it may have originated from a scrap yard before spreading to the nearby shanties.
Rescue operations are underway, with firefighters continuously dousing the flames. More than a dozen water tenders are actively involved in the firefighting efforts. Local residents have also risked their lives to assist in extinguishing the fire. Officials, including the District Magistrate, DCP, and other authorities, are present at the scene.
This devastating incident has left hundreds of families homeless, with no means for food or shelter. An assessment of the extensive damage will be conducted, and police have initiated a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire.
Families in Distress as Children Remain Missing
Many residents were away at work during the fire, leaving numerous young children behind in the shanties. The sudden outbreak of flames left little time for families to escape or save their belongings. Many parents were seen grieving near the site, expressing concern for their missing children. DCP Dhaval Jaiswal confirmed that the fire has been brought under control, and cooling operations are ongoing, followed by a combing operation.
District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandad stated that the fire occurred in Kanawani village, which houses approximately 150 shanties and is known for scrap work. Seven fire engines were deployed to extinguish the flames, which have now been controlled. He assured that the fire will not spread further and that any reports of missing persons will be investigated. Ambulances have been called to the scene, and the situation is now under control. So far, there have been no reports of casualties or missing individuals.