RAJKOT: The death toll in the massive fire at TRP Gamezone on Kalavad Road in Rajkot has reached 24, including 9 children. Authorities estimate many are still trapped. Police have arrested 4 individuals. The state government announced financial aid for victims' families.
The devastating fire at TRP Gamezone on Kalavad Road in Rajkot has claimed 24 lives, including 9 children. The fire, described as more severe than the Takshila fire accident in Surat five years ago, has left many still trapped within the game zone. Collector Anand Patel and Police Commissioner Raju Bhargava are at the scene, coordinating rescue operations. So far, 24 bodies have been recovered and sent to the hospital. Police have arrested four individuals, including the game zone's operator and manager, in connection with the incident.
The state government has announced an assistance package of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. According to a fire brigade official, emergency services were alerted to the fire inside TRP Mall behind Sayaji on Saturday evening. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene, but the presence of highly flammable materials caused the fire to spread rapidly. The intensity of the blaze was such that plumes of smoke were visible from approximately five kilometers away.
Ambulances were deployed as reports of numerous people trapped inside the game zone emerged. A fire call was declared due to the severity of the situation. Despite successfully extinguishing the fire, the tin shed's structure hindered rescue efforts. Late in the evening, bodies began to be recovered from the debris, with a total of 24 found so far. Reports indicate that several individuals remain trapped inside.
Prime Minister Expresses Grief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident on his X handle. "Extremely distressed by the fire incident in Rajkot. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. Pray for the injured. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected people," he wrote.
Game Zone Operated Without NOC
Shocking revelations have surfaced regarding the operation of TRP Gamezone. It has been discovered that the game zone was running without a fire NOC (No Objection Certificate) for an extended period. Jaimeen Thakar, Chairman of the Standing Committee of Rajkot Municipal Corporation, acknowledged this lapse and assured that the government and municipal authorities will hold the responsible parties accountable. Mayor Bina Acharya stated that strict action will be taken against those found guilty. Congress leader Shaktisingh Gohil also expressed his condolences and criticized the government for the oversight.
