Hyderabad, India – May 18, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences over the tragic fire incident that occurred at Gulzar Houz, a bustling area in the heart of Hyderabad, on Sunday. The devastating blaze resulted in the loss of several lives and left multiple people injured, shaking the local community and the nation at large.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister shared his grief, writing,
“Deeply anguished by the fire tragedy in Hyderabad’s Gulzar Houz. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones. Praying for the injured to recover swiftly.”
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.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 18, 2025
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be…
As a gesture of support and solidarity, PM Modi announced financial assistance to help the victims and their families during this difficult time. An ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh will be provided from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of each deceased victim. Additionally, ₹50,000 will be given to those who sustained injuries in the incident.
The fire broke out in a commercial-residential complex in the crowded Gulzar Houz area, a popular marketplace located near Charminar, a historic landmark. According to local authorities, the fire started in the early hours of Sunday and quickly engulfed the building due to the presence of inflammable materials stored in the lower floors.
Firefighters and emergency response teams acted swiftly, deploying multiple fire engines to control the flames and rescue individuals trapped inside. Despite their efforts, several lives were lost, and numerous others were injured due to burns and smoke inhalation.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “chaotic and terrifying,” with thick smoke billowing into the air and people running in panic. Many local residents and shopkeepers assisted in the evacuation process before emergency services arrived.
The Telangana State Government has also ordered an investigation into the cause of the fire, with Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressing his own condolences and promising that stringent action would be taken if negligence was found to be a factor.
The tragedy has reignited discussions around fire safety regulations in commercial zones across Indian cities, especially in older and densely populated areas like Gulzar Houz. Experts are calling for stricter enforcement of building codes and mandatory fire audits to prevent such incidents from recurring.
As the city mourns the victims of this catastrophe, relief measures are being rolled out to provide support to the affected families. The Prime Minister’s intervention and announcement of compensation reflect the central government’s recognition of the gravity of the incident and its commitment to assist those impacted.
The names of the deceased have not yet been officially released as authorities are working to notify the families. Meanwhile, the injured are being treated in various government and private hospitals, with some reported to be in critical condition.