Skylift Failed, Cables Blocked Rescue: Probe Into Delhi Fire That Killed 9

An official inquiry into a deadly fire in Delhi that claimed nine lives has pointed to significant failures by municipal authorities and the Delhi Fire Services. The probe into the Palam fire incident has flagged multiple systemic issues that contributed to the tragedy.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) faces criticism for enforcement failures, particularly concerning the unauthorized commercial use of buildings. The investigation also highlighted the dangerous presence of illegal overhead cables, which likely obstructed rescue efforts.

Furthermore, the inquiry revealed a critical shortage of personnel within the Delhi Fire Services, with 853 vacancies noted. This, combined with serious gaps in essential equipment and technical training for firefighters, severely hampered the response to the emergency.

The findings underscore a broader concern about safety regulations and emergency preparedness in the capital, suggesting a need for urgent reforms to prevent future disasters.