Major fire damages seven shops at Madina Circle near Charminar in Hyderabad

A major fire broke out Monday morning at a G+2 commercial building at Madina Circle, one of the Old City’s busiest commercial hubs near Charminar and Pathar Gatti, damaging seven shops and triggering panic among traders and shoppers.

The blaze started on the first floor around 9:40 am and spread rapidly to adjoining shops, according to fire officials. Thick smoke billowed from the building, drawing crowds and slowing traffic in the area. Four fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and firefighters battled the flames for nearly seven to eight hours before bringing the fire under control.

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Shops storing textiles and clothes were among those affected, with most suffering heavy damage. “The fire was of medium to serious intensity. Preliminary indications point to a short circuit in an electrical panel as the likely cause, though the exact reason is under investigation. A detailed probe will begin once the premises are declared safe,” said Rajkumar, station fire officer (SFO), high court fire station. He added that the losses were estimated at several lakhs of rupees, with a detailed assessment pending consultations with the shopkeepers.

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Impact on traders and traffic
The fire caused significant disruption in the area. Madina Circle is a dense commercial zone frequented by locals and tourists visiting Charminar. Thick smoke and the presence of fire tenders slowed traffic on the surrounding roads for most of the day. Traders in the building reported heavy losses of stock and goods. The affected shops are expected to remain closed until safety assessments and cleanup are completed.

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Investigation and next steps
Fire officials have cordoned off the building pending a structural safety check. A detailed investigation into the exact cause of the fire will begin once the premises are declared safe. The preliminary focus is on the electrical panel on the first floor, though officials have not ruled out other factors. The Hyderabad Fire Department is expected to coordinate with local police and the GHMC for further assessment.

Safety concerns in Old City commercial hubs
The incident has renewed concerns about fire safety in older commercial buildings in the Old City, many of which have narrow lanes, dense electrical wiring, and limited fire escape routes. Traders and residents have previously called for regular safety audits and better enforcement of fire norms. The Hyderabad Fire Department has not yet announced any special inspection drive following this incident.

What affected traders should do
Shopkeepers whose goods were damaged are advised to document losses with photographs and receipts, and to file a formal claim with their insurance provider. They can also approach the local GHMC office or the Hyderabad Fire Department for a copy of the incident report, which may be required for insurance or relief claims. The exact process for any compensation from the municipal authorities has not been announced yet.

Source: Times of India – Hyderabad – Fire ravages 7 shops at Madina Circle near Charminar – https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/fire-ravages-7-shops-at-madina-circle-near-charminar/articleshow/135054850.cms