New Delhi: Lieutenant governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Wednesday ordered a comprehensive fire audit across Delhi’s localities and institutions following the blaze in a residential-cum-commercial building in southwest Delhi’s Palam that left nine people, including three children, dead.The directions were issued at a meeting of DDMA chaired by LG and co-chaired by chief minister Rekha Gupta and attended by senior govt officials, including chief secretary Rajeev Verma.“Discussed today’s unfortunate residential fire incident; directed a comprehensive fire audit across localities and institutions to strengthen prevention,” LG Sandhu said in a post on X.CM Gupta, meanwhile, ordered a magisterial inquiry. “The inquiry will examine all aspects, including possible safety lapses, and recommend measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” said an official.As part of immediate relief measures, Delhi govt also announced compensation for victims. While families of the deceased adults will receive Rs 10 lakh each, those who lost minors will receive Rs 5 lakh. Those seriously injured in the fire will be provided Rs 2 lakh.CM Gupta said Delhi govt was committed to ensuring relief and all necessary assistance. In a post on X, she said: “Deeply saddened by the tragic fire incident in Palam. The loss of innocent lives is heartbreaking. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May God grant peace to the departed souls and strength to their loved ones to bear this irreparable loss. Delhi govt stands firmly with the affected families and will ensure all possible support.“
