Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex gratia of
₹2 lakh for the families of the 17 victims who perished in a devastating fire in Hyderabad's Gulzar House area. The fire, which broke out early Sunday morning, was reportedly caused by a
short circuit and trapped victims as they slept.
The Telangana fire department confirmed that among the deceased were
eight children, the youngest being just
1.5 years old. Eyewitnesses described a heartbreaking scene, with a mother found clutching her children in a desperate attempt to shield them from the flames.
“Zahir described finding a woman who had desperately hugged her children, trying to shield them from the flames,” reported a local.
Rescue operations faced significant challenges due to the building's outdated structure, which had only one narrow entrance and staircase, making escape nearly impossible.
“The main problem here is only one entrance,” said Y Nagi Reddy, director general of Telangana fire services.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his condolences, stating,
“Deeply anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy in Hyderabad.” He also pledged support for the injured, announcing
₹50,000 for those affected. The incident has raised concerns about fire safety in densely populated areas like Gulzar House, known for its narrow lanes and interconnected structures.
The victims included four senior citizens and eight children, highlighting the tragic impact on families in the community.
Sources: 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ₹2 lakh aid for the families of 17 fire victims in Hyderabad, where a tragic blaze claimed lives, including eight children. The fire, reportedly caused by a short circuit, broke out in a building near Charminar, trapping victims as they slept.
