At least nine individuals lost their lives and multiple others sustained injuries after a severe fire erupted in a residential building located in New Delhi. Initial indications suggest the blaze may have been caused by an explosion of an air-conditioner unit.
The fire ignited on the second floor of a building in the Vivek Vihar neighborhood and rapidly extended to the third and fourth floors. Within minutes, thick smoke and intense flames engulfed large portions of the structure, trapping residents and sparking panic in the densely populated area.
Emergency services, including fire brigade teams and rescue workers, arrived promptly at the scene. A large-scale evacuation operation was initiated, resulting in dozens of residents being rescued. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, with some reported to be in critical condition.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the definitive cause of the fire. While several residents have pointed to a possible air-conditioner explosion, officials have stated that a comprehensive investigation is underway to establish the exact origin of the blaze.
Experts highlight that fires linked to air-conditioners, though uncommon, can occur due to electrical malfunctions, short circuits, inadequate maintenance, or overheating, particularly during periods of intense use in extreme heat. Factors such as faulty wiring, substandard components, and irregular servicing can significantly elevate the risk, especially in older buildings with outdated electrical infrastructure.
Officials are expected to provide further updates as the investigation advances, amid ongoing concerns regarding safety protocols and preventive measures in residential complexes.
