Massive Fire Near Charminar Kills 17, Including 8 Children; PM Modi, Telangana CM Express Condolences

Hyderabad, May 18, 2025 — A devastating fire that erupted in a building at Gulzar House near the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad claimed the lives of 17 people, including eight children, early Sunday morning. The blaze, reportedly triggered by a short-circuit, broke out around 6:30 am and quickly engulfed the three-storey structure, which housed jewellery shops on the ground floor and residential flats above.

Officials confirmed that many victims died from suffocation caused by heavy smoke that spread to the upper floors. Hospital authorities from Yashoda Hospital and Apollo Hospitals confirmed that eight and five victims, respectively, were brought in dead with severe burns and inhalation injuries.

Apollo Hospitals released a statement noting their medical teams remain on standby at the site. “Our ambulance team continues to remain on site to rescue any further victims. We are providing maximum support to the families of victims in this difficult time,” the hospital said.

Telangana Director General of Police Jitender said the fire was under control and 17 others were rescued from the building. Fire and rescue operations were carried out swiftly, with trapped residents moved to nearby hospitals.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. In a post on X, he announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. “Deeply anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy in Hyderabad, Telangana. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon,” his statement read.

Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy expressed shock over the incident and directed officials to ensure all necessary assistance for the victims. Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, who visited the site, reiterated that the fire was caused by a short-circuit and assured an inquiry into the tragedy.

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy also visited the location. Police have registered a case, and access to the site remains restricted as investigations continue. Four interrelated families were living in the building at the time of the incident, according to local MLA Mir Zulfeqar Ali.