A firefighter was killed and 14 others injured when a battery factory collapsed in northwest Delhi's Peera Garhi following an explosion due to a fire that broke out early on January 2 morning, officials said.
As many as 18 people, including two caretakers and a security guard, were rescued from the building, officials added.
The deceased firefighter has been identified as Amit Balyan (20), who was admitted to Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal condoled his death and tweeted, "It is with deep sadness I inform you that one of our firemen was martyred while saving people from fire. Our firemen save other people's lives by putting their lives under extremely risk in difficult circumstances. May his soul rest in peace."
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal also condoled the death of the firefighter.
"Deeply anguished over news of death of fire operator Amit Balyan Amit along with his team members fought bravely to save lives of many people. I salute his bravery My sincere condolences to his family members. All possible assistance to be extended to the injured & bereaved family," he tweeted.
According to Delhi Fire Services (DFS), a call was received around 4 a.m. about a fire at a factory in Udyog Nagar area of Peeragarhi. Seven fire engines were rushed to the spot. But the fire spread out due to the explosion of the batteries. A portion of building also collapsed due to the blast, following which several workers and fire personnel got trapped inside.
Many people were trapped inside the building after the explosion and collapse, fire officials said earlier in the day. Later, the fire had been brought under control and the cooling process was underway. All the firemen, who were trapped under the debris, had been rescued.
(With PTI inputs)
