How a Single-Entry Hyderabad Building Became a Death Trap in Devastating Fire

A devastating fire broke out on Sunday morning at Gulzar House, just 100 metres from Hyderabad’s iconic Charminar, killing 17 members of a single family — including eight children. The blaze, reportedly triggered by a short circuit, turned what was supposed to be a joyful family gathering into a horrifying tragedy.

Family Gathering Turns Fatal Amid School Break

The victims had gathered at the residence during school and college holidays. Among the deceased were four daughters of the homeowner and their children, who had come visiting. With only one exit and the windows shut—likely due to the use of air conditioners—the family had no way to escape once the fire started.

Victims Likely Unconscious Within Minutes

Officials stated that the victims died from inhaling toxic smoke rather than burn injuries. “The victims died due to smoke inhalation, and nobody had burn injuries,” confirmed Y Naggi Reddy, Director General of Telangana Disaster Response and Fire Services.

Single Exit and Closed Windows Blamed

Authorities pointed to the building’s design as a major factor in the high death toll. Deputy Commissioner of Police Sneha Mehra explained, “Another entry point was created, and firefighters entered from there. Most of the people inside were unconscious. These are old establishments with some new construction. Only one narrow path leads to the area where the fire happened.”

Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi added that some residents may have locked themselves inside during the chaos.

Massive Rescue Operation Launched

At least 11 fire engines, a firefighting robot, and several fire personnel responded to the emergency. While locals claimed the engines ran out of water, a senior official dismissed the claim. “Every fire engine has 4,500 litres of water; the rest is arranged by the corporation,” said Mr Reddy, stressing the urgent need for installing smoke and fire alarms.

Pearl Market Shops Also Affected

The building’s ground floor housed multiple pearl shops. Shyam Sunder Agarwal, secretary of the Hyderabad and Secunderabad Pearls Association, linked the incident to persistent voltage fluctuations and called for stronger safety measures. “Three fire incidents have occurred in a week,” he said, urging authorities to act swiftly to protect the community.

Condolences and Compensation Announced

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced financial aid for the victims’ families.

The fire has not only shaken the residents of Hyderabad but also spotlighted critical lapses in building safety and fire preparedness in densely populated urban zones.