Tragedy in Haryana: 5 Women workers killed, over 20 injured in factory blaze
Rohtak (The Uttam Hindu): A major fire broke out at a factory manufacturing Holi colors and gulal in Safidon town of Jind district, Haryana, on Saturday afternoon. Five female workers have died in the accident so far, while about 20 others suffered serious burns. The injured have been admitted to various hospitals for treatment, many of whom are said to be in critical condition.
According to preliminary information, approximately 30 workers were working in the factory at the time. After the sudden fire broke out, flames spread throughout the premises within minutes. The fire and smoke caused panic among the workers, and many were unable to escape. Nearby residents saw the smoke and immediately began rescue operations and informed the fire brigade. Workers allege that the factory's main gate was locked from the outside at the time of the accident, trapping many inside. After considerable effort, local residents broke the gate and rescued some workers. Fire engines arrived at the scene immediately, and after several hours of effort, the fire was brought under control.
Two female workers died on the spot, while several others with severe burns were referred to a hospital in Panipat, where three more women succumbed to their injuries during treatment. The deceased include Pooja (Ward No. 13, Safidon), Usha (Adarsh Colony), Pinky (Singhpura), and Guddi (Safidon), while one woman has not yet been identified.
District administration officials arrived at the scene upon receiving information about the incident. Mohammad Imran Raza (DC) and Kuldeep Singh (SP) inspected the scene and reviewed the treatment arrangements for the injured. Currently, the cause of the fire is being attributed to a short circuit, although the administration has ordered an investigation into the entire incident. Following the accident, anger was visible among the families of the deceased. The administration pacified them by assuring them of appropriate action and compensation.