Residents Claim Delays and Blocked Routes Aggravated Hauz Khas Fire Tragedy

A fire at Dhanendra Kumar's home in Hauz Khas led to his death, with residents blaming delayed fire response and obstructed roads. Issues of emergency preparedness and inefficient emergency access in gated colonies were highlighted.

A fire at former CCI chairman Dhanendra Kumar's residence in Hauz Khas tragically led to his death due to smoke inhalation. Neighbors blamed the delayed arrival of fire services and blocked access routes, worsened by chaotic parking and security barricades, for impeding emergency response efforts.

Kumar's son is hospitalized after attempting a rescue during the blaze, which reportedly started from a suspected short circuit. Residents are raising concerns about emergency preparedness in Delhi's gated colonies, where narrow and barricaded roads hinder timely access for emergency vehicles.

Locals recount the incident, stating that emergency services took nearly 45 minutes to arrive. Security measures and overflowing parking often obstruct access, exacerbating emergency situations. The fire department refuted some claims, stating their response was within 15 minutes, while police are investigating the cause.