Hyderabad Blaze Near Charminar Claims 17 Lives, Sparks Nationwide Outrage

Morning inferno at Gulzar House kills 17; probe underway as leaders call for stricter safety measures and compensation announced by PMO.

Hyderabad, May 18, 2025 — In a devastating incident early Sunday morning, at least 17 people lost their lives when a massive fire engulfed a building near Hyderabad’s historic Charminar. The inferno broke out in the densely populated Gulzar House area, home to several jewellery shops and residential units above.

Authorities suspect a short circuit might have triggered the blaze, although an official confirmation is still awaited. The fire department received an emergency call around 6:30 am, prompting the deployment of 11 fire engines. Despite a swift response, the fire rapidly spread, trapping residents inside.

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Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, who visited the site, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. “Such incidents are heartbreaking. The fire and municipal departments need stronger infrastructure and better equipment,” he said, adding that he would take the matter up with the Prime Minister for additional support and technological upgrades.

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Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also conveyed his condolences and directed officials to ensure top-notch medical care for the injured. Telangana Minister Ponnam Prabhakar confirmed that the bodies had been recovered and were sent for post-mortem examination, with further updates to follow.

The Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement on X, expressing deep anguish over the incident. “Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from PMNRF will be given to the families of the deceased, and ₹50,000 to the injured,” the statement read.

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The tragedy has highlighted long-standing concerns around fire safety in congested urban zones. A thorough investigation is expected to determine accountability and prevent such incidents in the future.

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Hyderabad fire, Charminar tragedy, Gulzar House blaze, Telangana news, fire safety Hyderabad, Kishan Reddy, Revanth Reddy, PM Modi compensation, India fire accidents, fire department Telangana