Devendra Kumar
A devastating fire in a nine-storey apartment building in Vietnam’s capital has claimed the lives of at least 56 people, including at least four children, with 37 more being treated for their injuries. The blaze, which started around midnight, was believed to have originated in the parking area of the building, which had no emergency exit. The fire raged throughout the night and was eventually extinguished in the morning, but not before rescuers struggled to reach the building on a narrow lane in south Hanoi.
Police have identified 39 of the 56 confirmed dead, and the owner of the building has been detained as part of their investigation. The fire was initially unclear, with initial reports suggesting a lower death toll as the injured and dead were taken to different hospitals across the city. However, as the day progressed, the true extent of the disaster became clear.
The building, which was home to 150 residents, was severely damaged in the blaze, with 54 of the 70 people rescued from the fire being taken to hospital for their injuries. Many residents were treated for smoke inhalation and injuries sustained as they tried to escape the building, which had no easy exit. Authorities are now investigating the cause of the fire, which is believed to have been exacerbated by the lack of emergency exits and other safety measures.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Vietnam, with officials and residents alike left to mourn the loss of life and consider the circumstances that led to the disaster. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need for buildings to be designed and constructed with the welfare of occupants in mind. As the investigation continues, those affected by the tragedy will be left to pick up the pieces and try to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of this devastating event.