New Delhi: Company owners Harish Goel and Varun Goel have been arrested by the Police in connection with the Delhi Mundka fire that broke out yesterday and claimed 27 lives. While over 50 people have been evacuated in a rescue operation, several people have been critically injured. As the rescue operation continues, the death toll in the tragedy is likely to go up.
According to a preliminary inquiry, the fire broke out on the first floor of the building that housed the office of a firm that manufactures CCTV cameras and Wi-Fi routers. Prime Minister Modi expressed his condolences to the families of those who were killed in the massive fire. PM Modi has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for family members of those who have been killed. Along with this, Rs 50,000 will be given to those who are injured in the fire, as per the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
The building did not have a fire NOC (no-objection certificate). The owner of the building has been identified as Manish Lakra who lived on the top floor. Lakra is currently missing, teams are on the job and he will be arrested soon,” DCP (deputy commissioner of police) Sameer Sharma (outer district) said.
Scenes of despair emerged from the site of tragedy as some people were seen jumping from the buildings in a bid to escape the flames. There was reportedly only one staircase, which made moving out of the building difficult. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said: “Shocked and pained to know about this tragic incident. I am constantly in touch with officers. Our brave firemen are trying their best to control the fire and save lives. God bless all.”