A major fire at a closed factory in the Khushkhera industrial area of Alwar district, Rajasthan, claimed the lives of seven people on Monday. The blaze caused panic in the surrounding industrial zone and led to emergency response measures.

Fire breaks out in closed factory

According to fire officer Raju Khan, six fire tenders were rushed to the site as soon as the incident was reported, and firefighters immediately began efforts to control the flames. Initial information revealed that the factory had remained shut for several months. A large quantity of cardboard had been stored inside the premises, which likely helped the fire spread quickly.

At around 10 am, thick smoke started coming out of the factory. Within minutes, the situation turned serious as the fire grew into a massive blaze.

Explosions spark panic

Eyewitnesses said they heard three to four loud explosions soon after the fire started, which created panic in the area. Authorities suspect that gas cylinders stored inside the factory may have exploded, causing the blasts. However, officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire.

As a safety measure, nearby factories were evacuated, and electricity supply to the area was temporarily cut off. Firefighters later brought the flames largely under control, although cooling operations continued to prevent the fire from reigniting.

Heavy losses reported

Preliminary estimates suggest that goods worth several lakhs of rupees were destroyed in the fire. Officials are now assessing the total financial damage caused by the incident.

Police have started an investigation to find out whether a short circuit or another factor triggered the blaze. Authorities have also instructed other industrial units in the area to review their safety systems and follow proper fire safety norms to avoid similar accidents.

Leaders express grief

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives. He directed the district administration to ensure the best possible medical treatment for those injured in the incident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled the deaths and described the incident as tragic. Referring to the fire in Bhiwadi, he said, "The fire mishap in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, is tragic and deeply saddening. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured," according to a post shared on the PMO’s X handle.