Wed Dec 31 20:18:41 UTC 2025: Summary:

Two separate fire incidents in Delhi claimed the lives of three elderly individuals on Wednesday. In Shahdara, a married couple succumbed to smoke inhalation after a fire, possibly caused by an LPG cylinder burst, engulfed their home. In Shaheen Bagh, a 72-year-old woman died of suffocation after a fire erupted in a residential building’s garage, gutting several vehicles. Investigations are underway to determine the exact causes of both fires.

News Article:

Delhi Fires Claim Three Lives on Wednesday

New Delhi, January 1, 2026: Tragedy struck Delhi on Wednesday as two separate fire incidents resulted in the deaths of three elderly individuals. Authorities are investigating the causes of the blazes that occurred in Shahdara and Shaheen Bagh.

In the first incident, a fire broke out at a residence in the Shivpuri area of Jagatpuri, Shahdara, claiming the lives of Prem Sagar Malhotra, 75, and his wife Asha Malhotra, 65. The couple was rushed to Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, but were declared dead upon arrival. Preliminary investigations suggest smoke inhalation as the cause of death, with officials suspecting a possible LPG cylinder burst as the fire’s origin. Firefighters successfully contained the blaze, preventing its spread in the densely populated area.

Later that day, a fire erupted in the garage of a four-storey residential building in Shaheen Bagh, resulting in the death of Fazila Kishwar, 72. According to eyewitnesses, a loud blast preceded the flames, which quickly spread upwards. While most residents managed to escape, Kishwar, who was staying with her son for medical treatment, succumbed to suffocation. Several vehicles were also destroyed in the fire. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) Hemant Tiwari stated that an inquiry has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the fire, the second one to strike Shaheen Bagh this year, after a fire destroyed a local footwear showroom in March of 2025.

Both incidents underscore the need for fire safety awareness and preparedness in residential areas. Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution with flammable materials and to ensure they have working smoke detectors.

Read More