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A devastating fire at the TRP game zone in Rajkot, Gujarat, claimed the lives of at least 22 people, including children, on Saturday afternoon. The tragedy has prompted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe, ordered by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
Details of the Incident
The fire broke out in the afternoon, leading to a massive rescue operation. Rajkot Police Commissioner Raju Bhargava reported that approximately 20 bodies had been recovered, with search operations ongoing. The fire has been brought under control, but efforts to retrieve bodies continue. The gaming zone is owned by Yuvraj Singh Solanki, and an offense for negligence leading to the deaths will be registered once rescue operations are complete.
Rescue Operations and Immediate Response
Several fire brigade vehicles and ambulances were dispatched to the scene. Rescue operations were challenging due to the collapse of a temporary structure, exacerbated by wind velocity. Smoke from the fire was visible from up to 3 kilometers away, and between 15 to 20 children were rescued from the gaming zone.
Government and Leaders’ Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep distress over the incident, stating, “Extremely distressed by the fire mishap in Rajkot. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured. The local administration is working to provide all possible assistance to those affected.”
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed his heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. He directed immediate rescue and relief operations and announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh to the families of the deceased and ₹50 thousand to the injured. CM Patel emphasized the importance of preventing such incidents in the future and stated that any negligence would be thoroughly investigated.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the cause of the fire and to ensure accountability. “It is very important to ensure that such an incident does not happen again. Any kind of negligence will not be entertained,” Patel affirmed.
President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her sorrow, saying, “I am deeply anguished to learn of the loss of lives in a fire accident at a gaming zone in Rajkot, Gujarat. My heart goes out to the families who have lost their near and dear ones, including young children. I pray to the Almighty for the speedy recovery of those being rescued.”
As rescue operations continue and investigations begin, the Rajkot community and the nation mourn the loss of innocent lives in this tragic incident.
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