Surat: 18 students dead in coaching center fire
What's the story
At least 18 students were killed as a major fire broke out at the Takshashila Complex in Surat, Gujarat, on Friday afternoon.
Reportedly, the fire started at a tuition center on the second floor of the building. As the flames engulfed the commercial complex, at least 10 students jumped off the building's terrace to ditch the flames.
Here are more details.
Details
Gujarat CM orders investigation into incident
In a video shared across broadcast TV, students can be seen jumping off the building's terrace to get away from the flames and the smoke billowing from the building.
Around 19 firefighters with two hydraulic platforms arrived at the spot to douse the flames and conduct rescue operations, PTI reported.
The death toll is likely to increase as several remain trapped inside the building.
Twitter Post
Here are the disturbing visuals
Black Day for #surat , more than 20 ppl died,gov ordered to invitigation
— Akash Patel 🇮🇳 (@Guru8089) May 24, 2019
more video in reply..😔😣😣 pic.twitter.com/01iYoZnzaZ
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'Operation to douse the fire is on,' says fire official
"Around 10 students on the fourth and third floor jumped off on the ground to save themselves from fire and smoke. Many have been rescued and sent to the hospital. The operation to douse the fire is on," a fire official told PTI.
Developments
Gujarat CM announces financial aid for family of deceased
Initial reports suggest that the fire started due to an electrical malfunction in air-conditioning unit and later spread to other areas.
An investigation has been ordered by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
The CM has also extended his condolences to those killed in the tragedy and announced financial aid of Rs. 4 lakh to each of the families of those killed, ANI reports.
Twitter Post
My prayers are with those affected: Gujarat CM
Deeply saddened by the news of Surat fire tragedy. Instructed officials to do needful. My prayers are with all those affected. May those who have been injured recover at the earliest. I pray for the departed souls. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/T4avRHOu5V
— Vijay Rupani (@vijayrupanibjp) May 24, 2019
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My thoughts are with bereaved families: PM Modi
Reacting to the tragic news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Extremely anguished by the fire tragedy in Surat. My thoughts are with bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly. Have asked the Gujarat Government and local authorities to provide all possible assistance to those affected."