Sun May 18 10:21:52 UTC 2025: ## Hyderabad Fire Claims 17 Lives; Family Trapped Near Charminar

**Hyderabad, India – May 18, 2025** – A devastating fire ripped through a residential building near Gulzar Houz, Charminar early this morning, claiming the lives of 17 members of the Modi family. The blaze, which erupted under unclear circumstances, left the family trapped, prompting desperate calls for help from within the inferno.

Syed Iqbal, a close friend of the family, recounted the heart-wrenching moment he received a call from Pankaj Modi, 36, minutes before the tragedy. “He was panicking and asked for help,” Iqbal stated, his voice filled with emotion. “We are trapped here. There is no way to get out. Please help.”

Emergency services arrived on the scene shortly after the call, but the thick smoke and intense flames had already engulfed the building, making rescue efforts impossible. Pankaj Modi briefly escaped the burning building to check for help, but the cries of his children and the thought of his wife still inside compelled him to return, where he perished along with the rest of his family.

The news has sent shockwaves through the community. Dilbagh Singh, a friend of the family, received the devastating news from Govinda, Pankaj’s elder brother. “Bhaiya chale gaye… behene bhi nahi rahin,” (My brother is no more, so are the sisters), Govinda reportedly said, leaving Singh in disbelief.

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire. The narrow entrances to the building are being cited as a contributing factor to the high death toll, hindering escape and rescue attempts.

This tragedy marks a somber day for Hyderabad, leaving a community in mourning. Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.

Read More