A massive fire broke out at the Brahmaputra Building, a residential complex for MPs near Pant Marg in New Delhi, on Saturday afternoon.
While there were no casualties, the incident has sparked a political debate, with opposition leaders criticizing the Delhi government over fire safety and emergency preparedness.
Residents Report Delays in Fire Response
TMC MP Saket Gokhale, who lives in the building, described the fire as a “terrifying experience.” He claimed that despite three fire stations being within five minutes, the first fire engine arrived 25 minutes after he called the department.
Gokhale added:
-
The building’s fire system had no water.
-
The fire alarm was non-functional.
-
People evacuated while the fire raged, and ambulances arrived an hour later without first-aid kits.
-
Staff housing was completely gutted, leaving residents without belongings.
Political Leaders Criticize Delhi Government
Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal accused the BJP-led government of neglecting public safety and mismanaging the city. He claimed that Delhi now faces broken roads, overflowing sewers, and water shortages, while residents struggle with high electricity and water bills.
Kejriwal said, “People voted for the BJP expecting better governance. But in six months, the city’s condition has worsened.”
Fire Origin and Response
According to the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, the fire broke out in the staff quarters block of the building. It started around 1:15 PM, reportedly due to firecrackers ignited by children near unserviceable furniture stacked for disposal.
The fire was fully extinguished by 1:45 PM, thanks to coordinated efforts by CPWD officials and Delhi Fire Service personnel. All firefighting systems in the building were operational and effectively used, preventing casualties.
