Sat Jul 05 19:02:03 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
A major fire erupted at the Vishal Mega Mart shopping mall in Karol Bagh, Delhi, on Friday evening, resulting in the deaths of two men. The fire, believed to have been caused by a short circuit, rapidly spread throughout the four-story building. Firefighters struggled to contain the blaze due to the mall’s location in a densely packed market area. One victim was found in a lift, reportedly sending desperate messages for help before succumbing to asphyxiation. The other victim’s body was badly burned and identified by friends. Investigations are underway to determine the cause and to ascertain if the mall adhered to safety regulations.
**News Article:**
**Two Killed in Massive Fire at Delhi Shopping Mall**
**NEW DELHI, July 6, 2025** – A devastating fire ripped through the Vishal Mega Mart shopping mall in Karol Bagh, central Delhi, on Friday evening, claiming the lives of two men. The blaze, which began at approximately 6:44 p.m. on the second floor of the four-story building, drew a massive response from the Delhi Fire Services (DFS), with 13 fire tenders and 90 firefighters battling the flames well into Saturday morning.
Police have identified the deceased as Dhirender Pratap, 25, from Uttar Pradesh, who was at the mall seeking employment, and Pawan Gautam, 30, an IT professional also from U.P. Tragically, Pratap was found dead inside a lift, with family members alleging that rescue operations were slow and that he had sent desperate messages pleading for help before he died. Gautam’s body was severely charred and identified by friends.
“We received the call at 6:44 p.m., shortly after which our team reached the scene,” stated DFS Assistant Divisional Officer Ravi Nath. “It was difficult to enter the complex because the fire was spreading fast due to combustible items like groceries and clothes.” He further noted the challenges posed by the congested Karol Bagh market, making it difficult for fire engines to access the scene and contain the blaze.
DCP (Central) Nidhin Valsan confirmed that at least 93 people were inside the mall when the fire started. Initial investigations suggest a short circuit may have been the cause, but a detailed probe is ongoing.
Police have registered a case and are investigating whether the mall adhered to necessary safety protocols, including the presence of functional fire exits, extinguishers, and alarms. The incident has raised serious questions about fire safety standards in commercial buildings within the crowded markets of Delhi.
First Piper 