'Rajkot's nightmare' : Blaze erupts at game zone in Gujarat, claims 22 lives

A massive fire erupted at TRP Game Zone in Rajkot, Gujarat, claiming at least 20 lives. Rajkot's Commissioner of Police confirmed ongoing rescue operations and stated that the fire was under control. (Photo credit: ANI)

The gaming zone's owner, Yuvraj Singh Solanki, faced potential legal repercussions as authorities announced plans to investigate negligence. The focus remained on completing rescue efforts before delving into the cause of the tragedy. (Photo credit: ANI)

Despite ongoing investigations, the exact cause of the fire is still unclear. The incident prompted questions about safety standards and emergency preparedness in commercial establishments. (Photo credit: ANI)

Gujarat's chief minister, Bhupendra Patel, swiftly directed civic authorities to initiate rescue and relief measures. Prioritizing treatment for the injured, the government mobilized resources to address the aftermath of the disaster. "Instructions have been given to the Municipal Corporation and the administration for immediate rescue and relief operations in the fire incident in the game zone in Rajkot. It has been instructed to prioritise arrangements for immediate treatment of the injured," Patel said in a post on X. (Photo credit: ANI)

The fire's intensity led to the collapse of the gaming zone's temporary structure, complicating rescue efforts. Firefighters faced challenges in dousing the flames as they grappled with the structural damage caused by the blaze. (Photo credit: ANI)

Firefighters and emergency responders worked tirelessly to extract people trapped beneath the collapsed structure. Despite hindrances posed by the wreckage, teams remained dedicated to saving as many lives as possible. "The Fire control room received a call at around 4:30 pm regarding the blaze at the game zone. Fire tenders and ambulances rushed to the spot to douse the flames. The fire caused the collapse of the structure, and debris is being cleared. So far we have received a figure of 16 deaths," said Rajkot Collector Prabhav Joshi. (Photo credit: ANI)

Modi said on X, "Extremely distressed by the fire mishap in Rajkot. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured. The local administration is working to provide all possible assistance to those affected." (Photo credit: ANI)

Union home minister Amit Shah tweeted, "I am deeply saddened by the accident that happened in the game zone of Rajkot (Gujarat). I have spoken to chief minister Bhupendra Patel and got information regarding this accident. The administration is making every possible effort for relief and rescue work and is providing treatment to the injured. I express my deepest condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in this tragic accident and wish for the speedy recovery of the injured." (Photo credit: ANI)