Mahi Shrivastava, Bhopal: A major fire broke out at a four-storey commercial building in Delhi’s Gaffar Market in Karol Bagh during the early hours of Friday, days before Diwali and on the occasion of Dhanteras. The Delhi Fire Service deployed 22 fire-service units to bring the blaze under control.
Fire Spreads Across Building
Police received a PCR call about the fire in Chain Wali Gali at around 1:28 am. Firefighters reached Shop No. 13/21 in Puri Plaza, a commercial building dealing in mobile accessories.
Preliminary information suggests the fire began in a ground-floor shop where mobile batteries were stored. It then spread to all four floors of the building. Police said overheating or overcharging of batteries could be a possible cause, though the exact reason has not yet been established.
Large Emergency Operation
Around 20 to 25 fire tenders, three CAT ambulances and two PCR vehicles were rushed to the spot. As the fire intensified, additional water bowsers and lighting equipment were also deployed.
Firefighters faced difficulty moving vehicles through the market’s narrow lanes. Heavy tenders were stationed on the main road, and water pipes were laid into the market to fight the flames.
No Casualties Reported
The fire was brought under control after a prolonged operation, and cooling work continued at the site. Police said no loss of life or injuries had been reported, though the blaze caused extensive damage to property.
The market was closed at the time of the incident, which is believed to have helped prevent casualties. Police personnel remained deployed in the area to maintain law and order.
Investigation Underway
Police will seek a detailed report from the Delhi Fire Service and the Electrical Inspector to determine the exact cause of the fire. A Forensic Science Laboratory team will also examine the building to check whether other combustible materials contributed to the spread.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi will be asked to provide a structural safety assessment to rule out any danger to human life. Further action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
The incident has once again highlighted fire-safety concerns in Delhi’s crowded commercial markets, especially during the festive season when shops often stock large quantities of electronic goods and inflammable material.