Twenty-seven people died after a massive fire broke out at an office building in Mundka in Delhi at around 4.45 pm on Friday. According to the Delhi Police, people were still trapped in the building as of Friday night. Search and rescue operations were underway.

“Fire-fighting operation has been concluded. Rescue operation continues, it will take time given the vastness of the area,” Deputy Chief Fire Officer Sunil Choudhary said.

When the fire broke out, the local police reached the spot immediately and broke the windows of the office building to rescue those trapped inside. Those injured were admitted to the hospital.

More than 30 fire brigades were rushed to the spot to control the situation. An ambulance also reached the site of the fire to provide immediate medical assistance to the victims.

On preliminary inquiry, it has been learnt that the four-storey building is used as office space for multiple companies.

The fire broke out on the first floor of the building, which serves as the office for a company that manufactures CCTV cameras and routers. Over 50 employees of the company have been rescued. The owner of the company, meanwhile, has been detained by the police.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Extremely saddened by the loss of lives due to a tragic fire in Delhi. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I wish the injured a speedy recovery.”

The Prime Minister’s Office tweeted that Rs 2 lakh would be given to the next of kin of all those who lost their lives in the fire. Those injured will be given Rs 50,000 each.

Reacting to the incident, President Ram Nath Kovind said, “Distressed by the tragic fire accident at a building near Mundka Metro Station in Delhi. My condolences to the bereaved families. I wish for speedy recovery of the injured.”

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal wrote, “Shocked and pained to know about this tragic incident. I am constantly in touch with officers. Our brave firemen are trying their best to control the fire and save lives. God bless all.”_India Today