Cracks to faulty wiring: Here are preliminary findings of forensic team probing Gulzar House inferno

Hyderabad: A forensic team inspected the Gulzar House fire mishap site discovered as many as 14 air conditioning units installed in the building, raising suspicions of excessive load on electrical wiring.

The devastating fire at Gulzar House that left 17 people dead may have severely compromised the structural integrity of the building, officials said.

The forensic team after inspecting the site also found significant cracks in the walls and flooring, indicating that the intense heat may have weakened the concrete structure beyond repair.

Preliminary reports suggest the fire was likely triggered by an explosion in an air conditioner compressor. Officials noted evidence of aging and potentially faulty wiring, suggesting a possible short circuit caused by overheated wires.

The combination of outdated electrical systems and heavy use of appliances may have led to a critical failure. Further exacerbating the tragedy, the building reportedly lacked proper ventilation. The absence of an exhaust system may have allowed smoke to accumulate rapidly, contributing to the suffocation of the victims.

Tiles, marble fittings, and structural components were visibly damaged by the fire’s intense heat, leading authorities to consider demolition. A final decision will follow a detailed structural assessment, but officials say the current condition poses serious safety concerns.

The incident has raised questions about building safety standards and the enforcement of fire safety regulations in older structures across the city.