Telangana Govt sets up 6-member committee to probe Gulzar Houz fire that killed 17
Hyderabad: A six-member high-level committee has been constituted to conduct a detailed investigation into the fire accident that killed 17 people on May 18 at Gulzar Houz, near Charminar in Hyderabad. The decision was announced by Hyderabad In-Charge Minister Ponnam Prabhakar.
The committee includes GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan, Hyderabad District Collector Anudeep Durishetty, Hyderabad City Police Commissioner C.V. Anand, Fire Services Director General Nagireddy, HYDRAA Commissioner Ranganath, and TGSPDCL CMD Musharraf.
The panel has been tasked with investigating the cause of the fire, assessing the response by various departments, and submitting a comprehensive report to the Chief Minister. It has also been directed to recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future and suggest ways to raise public awareness at the community level. Once the report is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and senior officials for further action.
Claims on Lack of Oxygen in Ambulances Dismissed
Meanwhile, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has dismissed allegations that oxygen was not provided in ambulances during the rescue operation. He described such claims as baseless and politically motivated, stating that they undermine the morale of emergency personnel and create unnecessary panic. Following the incident, 15 fire victims were transported in seven 108 ambulances to nearby government and private hospitals. The Minister confirmed that oxygen was administered en route and emergency aid was provided.
The first emergency call was received at 6:17 AM. The Goshamahal ambulance (TS 08 UL 5682) reached the scene by 6:25 AM. Shortly after, six additional ambulances (TG 09 UB 9280, TG 08 T 8252, TG 08 T 7933, TG 08 T 7274, TG 08 T 8202, and TG 08 T 8113) were dispatched and assisted in the rescue efforts. On May 19, under the supervision of the District Collector, three senior public health officers conducted surprise inspections of all seven ambulances. The inspections confirmed that each vehicle was equipped with functional oxygen supplies and essential medical equipment.
