A tragic fire broke out on May 18, 2025, in a three-storey building near Hyderabad’s Charminar, resulting in the deaths of 17 individuals, including eight children. The fire, believed to have been caused by a short circuit and an AC compressor explosion, rapidly engulfed the building, trapping its occupants.

Among the victims were cousins Pankaj (37) and Abhishek (31) from jeweller Prahlad Modi’s family. After initially escaping the blaze, both men returned to rescue their loved ones. Pankaj re-entered to save his wife and three children, followed by Abhishek. Although they were rescued alive, they succumbed to their injuries en route to the hospital. Pankaj’s wife, Varsha, was later found holding four child victims, likely attempting to protect them .

The building’s narrow, tunnel-like entrance and single staircase impeded escape efforts. Rescue operations were further hampered by the lack of alternative exits and blocked windows, turning the structure into a “gas chamber” due to smoke accumulation .

Witnesses and family members criticized the delayed response of emergency services. Some locals claimed that fire tenders arrived 25 to 30 minutes after being informed and lacked sufficient water to douse the flames, allowing the fire to spread further. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy acknowledged the need for better funding and equipment for the fire department after locals reported delays .

This incident has raised serious concerns about building safety regulations and emergency preparedness in densely populated urban areas.

Sources