Massive fire erupts at MPs’ Brahmaputra Apartments near Parliament House; serious questions raised over non-functional fire-fighting equipment

It is reported that fire brigade vehicles did not arrive until 30 minutes after the fire broke out.

New Delhi: A massive fire broke out this afternoon at the Brahmaputra Apartments on Delhi’s high-profile Dr. Vishambar Das Marg. These apartments house the residences of most Rajya Sabha MPs. This incident, just 200 meters from Parliament House, has caused significant concern among local residents and security officials. It is reported that fire brigade vehicles did not arrive until 30 minutes after the fire broke out.

Six fire engines have been deployed to control the blaze. However, no casualties have been reported yet. Meanwhile, TMC MP Saket Gokhale wrote on Instagram, “A massive fire broke out at the Brahmaputra Apartments on BD Marg in Delhi. All residents are Rajya Sabha MPs. The building is 200 meters from Parliament House. The fire department has not arrived in 30 minutes. The fire is still burning and spreading. Despite repeated calls, fire engines are missing. Delhi government, have some shame.”

The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Eyewitnesses say that the fire hydrant in the apartment was not working, and there was no water supply in the pipelines meant for dousing the fire.