A major fire broke out at a building in Guzar House near the historic Charminar in Hyderabad on Sunday. 17 people, including eight children, were killed in the fire. Telangana Fire DG Nagi Reddy said that the fire was caused by a short circuit.
"The cause of the fire was a short circuit in the shopping area. A total of 21 people were in the building during the incident. Four of them survived because they were on the upper floors," Telangana Fire DG Nagi Reddy told PTI.
"The remaining 17 people, who were shifted to the hospital in an unconscious state, could not survive. The staircase was very narrow, which made escape difficult. There was only one exit, and the fire had blocked it," he added.
Director General of Police (DGP) Jitender also told reporters that, as per preliminary information, the fire was caused due to a short-circuit.

Apollo Hospitals, in a statement, said they received five people with burn and inhalation injuries, and all were declared brought dead.
"All these victims had severe burns and inhalation injuries and could not be revived. Death was declared. Our ambulance team continues to remain on site to rescue any further victims. We are providing maximum support to the families of victims in this difficult time," Apollo Hospitals said.
The Prime Minister's Office in a post on X (formerly Twitter) said that PM Modi expressed anguish over the loss of lives due to the fire tragedy in Hyderabad. He announced Rs 2 lakh for the kin of those who died and Rs 50,000 to the injured.
"Deeply anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy in Hyderabad, Telangana. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. AAn ex gratiaof Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000," PMO posted on X.