A massive fire erupted near Delhi’s Matiala fish market, consuming 300 to 400 slums and causing alarm among residents. The blaze, which began around 11:53 p.m. on Wednesday, swiftly spread through the densely populated area. Firefighters, aided by 24 fire tenders and senior officials, managed to contain the medium-category fire by 4:00 a.m. after hours of battling the flames.
Officials confirmed that the fire razed hundreds of slum dwellings, displacing numerous families, but fortunately, no casualties were reported. An investigation has been initiated to ascertain the fire’s cause. Affected residents were seen sifting through debris to salvage belongings, with some alleging that the fire was intentionally set and linking it to previous incidents in the area.
Residents expressed distress over the loss of their homes and possessions, with claims of forced collections and suspicions of deliberate fires. Despite the fire brigade’s efforts, the damage was extensive, leaving many long-time residents with nothing. Calls for government assistance and support have been made to aid those who have lost everything in the devastating fire.
