Solapur Fire Tragedy: PM Modi Announces Ex-Gratia for Victims’ Families as Blaze Claims Eight Lives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed grief over the devastating fire that broke out at a Central Industry unit in Solapur, claiming at least eight lives. The blaze, which started in the early hours of Sunday, took firefighters over 17 hours to bring under control.

“Pained by the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy in Solapur, Maharashtra. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000,” said PM Modi taking to social media platform “X”.

The fire reportedly started around 3 a.m., and by 4 a.m., fire brigade personnel were actively engaged in controlling the blaze. As many as 11 fire engines were deployed at the site. Despite bringing the fire under control after nearly 14 hours of relentless efforts, the flames reignited during the cooling operations, causing fresh challenges for firefighters.

Fire Officer Rakesh Salunke confirmed that fire brigade personnel were injured during the rescue efforts. “It took 17 hours to control the fire. Our teams have recovered a total of eight bodies so far,” he said.

During the cooling process, four bodies were found. Officials said the fire had initially been doused, but a sudden flare-up caused it to intensify again. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and an investigation is currently underway.​