Disaster – Fire Destroys Hundreds of Labourers’ Temporary Shelters Near Delhi’s Udyog Bhawan
Disaster – A major fire incident severely damaged a large cluster of temporary shelters occupied by labourers near Udyog Bhawan in central Delhi during the early hours of Wednesday.
A major fire swept through a settlement of temporary tin-roofed shelters housing labourers near Delhi’s Udyog Bhawan before dawn on Wednesday, destroying nearly 200 structures, according to officials. The fire triggered a large-scale emergency response, but timely action by firefighters ensured that no injuries or fatalities were reported.
Fire Spread Rapidly Across Temporary Shelters
Officials from the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) said the emergency call was received at approximately 3:02 a.m. Initial information indicated that the fire had started near an electrical panel located close to the labourers’ settlement. Due to the closely built tin sheds, the flames spread rapidly from one structure to another, making firefighting efforts more challenging.
The department initially dispatched two fire engines to the location. However, after assessing the intensity of the blaze, additional firefighting resources were immediately mobilised to prevent the fire from spreading further.
Large-Scale Firefighting Operation Launched
As the situation escalated, the fire department deployed a total of 19 firefighting vehicles, including water tenders, water bowsers and specialised support units. Firefighters worked continuously for more than two hours to contain the flames and protect nearby areas from further damage.
Officials confirmed that the fire was successfully brought under control at around 5:30 a.m. Despite the extensive destruction caused to the temporary shelters, there were no reports of casualties or injuries, offering significant relief to emergency responders and local authorities.
Redevelopment Work Ongoing in the Area
The affected site is located close to Udyog Bhawan, one of the prominent government office buildings within Delhi’s Central Vista district. The incident occurred as demolition activities have already begun at the decades-old office complex under the Central Government’s redevelopment programme.
Constructed during the late 1950s, Udyog Bhawan is being dismantled as part of the larger Central Vista redevelopment initiative. The project follows the earlier demolition of the neighbouring Nirman Bhawan and is intended to modernise administrative infrastructure in the national capital.
Authorities Continue Assessment
Officials are continuing to assess the extent of the damage caused by the fire while examining the circumstances that led to the incident. Preliminary information suggests that the blaze may have originated near an electrical installation, although the exact cause will be confirmed only after a detailed investigation.
The incident once again highlights the vulnerability of densely packed temporary settlements, where fires can spread quickly because of closely built structures. Authorities are expected to review safety measures in similar locations to help reduce the risk of such incidents in the future.