Tragedy Strikes Vikas Nagar: Fire Claims Lives of Two Children

A devastating fire in Vikas Nagar claimed the lives of two children and razed over 200 shanties, leaving many homeless. Authorities are investigating the cause while providing Rs 8 lakh compensation and relief services to victims. The fire was intensified by exploding LPG cylinders, prompting emergency evacuations.

A heart-wrenching tragedy unfolded in the Vikas Nagar area when a catastrophic fire consumed a slum cluster, resulting in the deaths of two young children and leaving numerous families homeless, officials reported on Thursday.

The inferno, which erupted on Wednesday evening, destroyed over 200 shanties and intensified as more than 30 LPG cylinders exploded. The devastating blaze was visible from up to 10 kilometers away, prompting the immediate deployment of nearly 20 fire tenders to contain it. Late Wednesday, the bodies of two victims, identified as Shruti and her infant sister, were recovered and sent for post-mortem examination, confirmed Deputy Commissioner of Police Deeksha Sharma.

Authorities have announced Rs 8 lakh in compensation for the family of the deceased, and ongoing relief efforts include distributing essential services and temporary shelters for displaced residents. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, with a thorough fire safety audit underway. Prominent figures such as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav have called for immediate relief measures and a comprehensive probe into the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)