New Delhi (India) May 3: An official said that a massive fire was reported from a residential building in the Vivek Vihar area of Delhi, following an apparent blast in the early morning hours today, at least nine persons have died and 20 others have been rescued. 

The blaze is believed to have begun in one of the higher floors in the four-storey building. The emergency services came to the spot upon notification and evacuated more than 10 people from the building. The injured who are believed to have smoke inhalation are undergoing medical treatment.

CM Rekha Gupta Extends Condolences

Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister of Delhi has described it as deeply tragic and has extended her deepest sympathies to the families who have lost their dear ones in the blaze. She has said that while the injured persons are being attended to, she prays for their quick recovery. The Chief Minister assured the public that the government is monitoring the situation constantly and providing necessary relief. 

LG Saxena Orders Full Assistance

The Lt Governor of Delhi Vinai Kumar Saxena has sent condolences to all the victims' families and has urged for the victims to be taken care of medically and helpfully. Lieutenant Governor has said that a team of fire fighters and emergency services was already in place trying to bring the situation under control and that he wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured and strength for the family members who have lost their loved ones. The fire has now been controlled and efforts are on to recover any remaining individuals. 

Police Identify Victims After Deadly Fire

The bodies were recovered from the second floor where the blaze was strongest, said Rajendra Prasad Meena, DCP, Shahdara District. There were three persons in the locked stairwell, while five others were found on the second floor and one in the first floor. 

The dead are Arvind Jain (60), Anita Jain (58) and their son Nishant Jain (35), his wife Anchal Jain (33) and grandson Akash Jain, and three from another family, Nitin Jain (50) and his wife Shailey Jain (48) and their son Samyak Jain (25). Shikha Jain (45) and Naveen Jain (48) (her husband) were found on the first floor, the former was found dead and the latter was injured.