Shaheed Nagar is a Muslim dominated area. There are several illegal dyeing and garment units in the locality. The fire broke out early morning at a garment factory in Sahibabad in Ghaziabad.

“The fire started at a denim factory in Sahibabad while the factory workers were inside. Those injured have been rushed to a private hospital nearby,” said Anup Singh, circle officer, Sahibabad.

At least 13 people were feared dead and many others injured on Friday in a factory fire in Ghaziabad district in Uttar Pradesh. Following the incident heavy police force has been deployed to maintain law and order.

14 fire tenders have reached the spot and are trying to douse the flames. Due to narrow lanes in the area, fire department found difficulties to reach the spot. The locals allege late action by local police and fire department.

The injured have been taken to nearby hospitals and GTB hospital in North East Delhi. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

When asked about cause of fire, Mr Hussain said as per initial reports, it appears to be a case of short circuit. “We are probing the case from all angles. A team has been formed to identify the reasons of fire. It is yet to be ascertained either unit was running illegally or not,” Mr Hussain added.