Hyderabad : In a distressing incident, citizens residing near the apartment engulfed in flames on Monday in Red Hills, Hyderabad, are grappling with the aftermath as the condition of the affected building and its vicinity worsens. The air in the affected area is contaminated with chemicals from the godown, causing residents to complain of burning eyes and headaches. The entire stretch of the affected locality has become sticky due to chemicals spread on the road.
Residents reported experiencing asphyxia and burning eyes, prompting many to cover their faces with masks. “The impact of the fire accident was prevalent, as we had to cover faces due to smoke with chemicals which emitted in the air,” said Shaik Majid of Red Hills. Some nearby residents have temporarily shifted, facing health issues. “The locality was covered with thick smoke. Due to chemical burns and spills on the road, I shifted my family to a relative’s house as we were facing burning eyes. I returned here to oversee the situation,” said another resident.
The entire stretch and nearby routes have suffered damage, turning sticky and slippery due to chemicals spread on the road. It is reported that the chemicals, including lubricants, posed a hazard. “After the fire, the entire chemical spread on roads, causing damage. Several motorists skidded due to the slippery conditions,” said Rajeev, a local shop-owner who witnessed the fire. Officials and media persons also faced difficulties walking on the road, with the chemical damaging their footwear.
Owner Booked, Minister Calls for Tough Action
The Nampally police have booked a case against owner Ramesh Jaiswal of Balaji Enclave, the residential apartment at Red Hills, where the fire incident occurred. He is currently absconding. The police have filed a case under Sections 304 (II), 285, 286 of IPC, and 9B(i)(6) of the Explosives Act, 1989. Special teams have been formed to apprehend the owner.
Minister K T Rama Rao has urged the police to initiate tough action against those found guilty. Fire Services officials noted that no complaints were made about the storage of chemicals in significant quantities in the building. Forensic experts have visited the building to collect material, while GHMC and Fire department officials conducted separate inquiries.
