A massive fire broke out at the Gaur Green Avenue Society in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday morning, causing significant damage to property. The fire reportedly originated in a flat on the ninth floor of a thirteen-story building and rapidly escalated, spreading to adjacent floors. According to reports, a total of eight flats located between the 9th and 12th floors have been completely gutted by the flames. Firefighting units and police personnel rushed to the spot immediately after receiving the information.
Sequence of Events and Firefighting Operations
The intensity of the fire was such that the flames spread from one tower to another, affecting two flats in the adjacent tower as well. Fortunately, the residents of the society showed great alertness and evacuated the building promptly as soon as the fire broke out. All residents managed to exit the premises in time, and no casualties or injuries have been reported so far, while more than 20 fire tenders are currently engaged in dousing the flames. On top of that, ambulances and a large police force have been deployed at the scene to handle any emergency situations as relief and rescue operations continue.
Residents' Ordeal and Allegations of Safety Lapses
Sunil, a resident of the 12th floor, shared his harrowing experience, stating that he was in Delhi when he received news of the fire. He immediately contacted his family, who managed to escape the flat with great difficulty. Sunil alleged that there are no proper fire safety arrangements within the society and emphasized that the builder should have ensured such measures. 5 crore rupees, has been entirely destroyed in the incident.
Government Response and Official Investigation
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognizance of the incident and directed officials to reach the spot immediately to expedite relief and rescue efforts. He has also ordered the Police Commissioner and the District Magistrate to remain present at the site to monitor the situation closely. While a short circuit is suspected to be the initial cause of the fire, the administration has ordered a formal investigation to determine the exact reason. The society has been completely evacuated for safety reasons.
According to administrative officials, the actual cause of the fire will only be confirmed after a thorough investigation. Currently, the priority remains to completely extinguish the fire and provide assistance to the affected families, while the society remains evacuated and under security cordons as fire department personnel continue cooling operations.
