DUBAI: A deadly fire broke out in a residential building located in Al Ras, Dubai resulting in the deaths of 16 people, including those of 3 Pakistanis, and injuries to nine others. The fire was reported to have started on the fourth floor of the building, and it took the firefighters around two hours to control it.
According to the Dubai Civil Defence Operations Room, it received the first notification about the fire at 12:35 pm, and a team reached the site within six minutes to start evacuation and firefighting operations. Teams from the Port Saeed and Hamriyah fire stations provided backup to the operations.
Preliminary investigations revealed that non-compliance with building security and safety requirements caused the fire. The authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation to provide a detailed report on the causes of the accident.
Social media was flooded with videos showing thick black smoke and flames leaping out of an apartment window as multiple fire engines and first responders reached the area. An eyewitness reported hearing a loud bang before the flames started.
The spokesperson for the Dubai Civil Defence expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and said that urgent medical aid was provided to the injured. Social worker Naseer Vadanappilly told local media that some bodies have been identified by relatives, and at least three people are in the hospital with stable conditions.
The Dubai Civil Defence has urged building owners and residents to comply with safety and security requirements to prevent such accidents in the future.
