No fire clearance, exits at Delhi shoe factory where blaze killed 4 blocked; 2 held

A fire broke out in a factory in Northwest Delhi's Mangolpuri Industrial Area Phase-1 on Friday evening, resulting in the tragic deaths of four workers. The incident occurred around 9:32 pm, with the blaze starting in the basement of the four-story building. Workers were reportedly unable to escape due to locked exits and blocked routes, including the staircase leading to the terrace.

Two individuals, Vikas (22) and Harinder (not specified), managed to survive the ordeal, while four others, identified as Ashok (25), Harihar (40), Lal Babu (38) and Prem Chand (50), perished.

The factory had been in operation for nearly three decades and allegedly lacked necessary safety measures. Among the alleged violations were the absence of a fire clearance certificate, inadequate ventilation, and blocked escape routes. The main exit of the building was locked, and iron sheets were placed on top of the gates. The windows were also sealed with iron grills, and the exhaust fans' openings were obstructed, preventing smoke from escaping.

Upon noticing fumes during a night patrol, Head Constable Upesh called for emergency services. The Delhi Police registered a culpable homicide case and arrested two individuals. One of the accused, Ashok (47), is the building supervisor, while the other, Suresh Chand (76), is the father of the factory owners. They have been summoned by the police but have not been traced yet.

Initial probes suggest that a short circuit might have caused the fire. The lack of a factory license inspection and the absence of a necessary NOC from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee are among the factors under investigation. The tragic incident has prompted grief from Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who extended her condolences to the bereaved families.