A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of Sunday, 3 May at B-13, Vivek Vihar Phase I, Delhi, claiming nine lives — including a toddler — and injuring several others. The blaze, which reportedly originated from an explosion in an AC unit on the second floor of a building in B-Block of the upscale colony, triggered a large-scale rescue operation involving 14 fire engines and multiple law enforcement teams.

Amit Shah Condoles the Tragedy

Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep sorrow over the incident, calling it "extremely distressing" in a post on social media platform X. "The fire incident in Vivek Vihar, Delhi, is extremely distressing. My condolences are with those who have lost their loved ones in this tragedy. May God grant strength to the bereaved families to endure this sorrow," Shah wrote.

The Home Minister further assured that the administration was extending every possible assistance to the injured. "The local administration is providing the best possible medical care to the injured. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured," he added.

How the Fire Unfolded

The fire was reported at approximately 4 a.m. IST, with police personnel — including the Vivek Vihar SHO and ACP — rushing to the spot immediately upon receiving information. The fire brigade and crime team also reached the premises shortly after. According to officials, the fire was brought under control by around 6 a.m., roughly two hours after it was first reported.

During rescue and firefighting operations, 15 persons were pulled out of the building. Of these, two sustained minor injuries and were shifted to Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital for treatment. The remaining rescued individuals were assessed at the scene.

Preliminary Enquiry and Death Toll

A preliminary enquiry confirmed that nine persons lost their lives in the incident, including a toddler. Further investigations and proceedings at the site are reportedly ongoing, officials said. The cause of the fire is being ascribed to an alleged explosion in an AC unit, though a formal forensic determination is yet to be announced.

Context and Concerns

This comes amid recurring concerns over fire safety compliance in residential colonies across Delhi, particularly in densely occupied buildings where electrical infrastructure is often overloaded. Vivek Vihar, though considered an upscale locality in East Delhi, has seen rapid vertical construction in recent years, raising questions about adherence to building codes and fire-exit norms. Authorities are expected to carry out a detailed investigation into whether safety regulations were followed at the premises.