Daijiworld Media Network - Meerut

Meerut, Feb 24: In a heart-rending incident, six persons, including five children, lost their lives after a massive fire broke out in a residential building in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut district on Monday evening, police said.

According to officials, two women and five children suffered severe burn injuries after being trapped inside the house when the blaze erupted. All seven victims were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. However, five children and one woman succumbed to their injuries during treatment.

Preliminary information suggests that the ground floor of the building was being used as a garment warehouse, while the family resided on the upper floor. At the time of the incident, a resident identified as Iqbal had reportedly stepped out for evening prayers along with his brother, leaving the women and children at home.

Neighbours noticed thick smoke and flames emanating from the building and immediately alerted the police and fire department. Fire tenders and police personnel rushed to the spot and brought the blaze under control after considerable effort.

Officials said the narrow lanes in the locality hampered the movement of fire engines, delaying firefighting operations. Rescue teams managed to evacuate the victims with difficulty and shifted them to hospital.

One of the injured was later referred to Meerut Medical College for advanced treatment. However, six of the victims died while undergoing treatment.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Police have initiated a probe, and further investigation is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the tragedy.