Diwali celebrations in Telangana this year saw an increase in fire-related incidents. The Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services department received a total of 33 emergency calls. In Hyderabad alone, there were 26 calls before midnight and 12 more after midnight. Fortunately, no major injuries were reported, though there was significant property damage.
One serious incident took place on Street Number 18 in Himayat Nagar. A fire started in a third-floor apartment when the family left diyas burning, which likely ignited nearby clothes. Firefighters were called at 10:34 p.m. and three fire trucks were sent to the area. The fire spread quickly, and one person had to be rescued from the floor as they were trapped by the intense heat.
In another incident in Vinayak Nagar, Hayathnagar, a man injured his hand due to a firecracker accident. He was sent to the hospital before fire services arrived. The mishap happened on the first floor of a residential building, highlighting the dangers of using fireworks in small or elevated spaces.
At Eastwood Furniture in Saroornagar, a fire caused major damage, though luckily no one was inside at the time. Other minor incidents included a fire at an electrical shop on RP Road in Secunderabad and a coconut tree catching fire in Domalguda.
These incidents show the importance of safety during festivals, especially when using fireworks or open flames. Although the fire department was prepared, the number of incidents highlights the need for more public awareness about fire hazards during celebrations.
