Thick black smoke billowed into the morning sky over Delhi's Raisina Hill after a short circuit sparked a sudden fire in an AC boiler on the rooftop of the historic North Block administrative building. Emergency teams reacted immediately, bringing the situation under control before any serious damage or injury could occur.
What Caused The Fire On The Rooftop?
According to official statements released by the Delhi Fire Department, routine maintenance and dismantling work was actively underway on the terrace of the building when the accident occurred. Sparks generated during active welding operations triggered an unexpected short circuit inside one of the rooftop AC boilers. The electrical fault quickly ignited surrounding components, sending thick black plumes of smoke spiraling upward into the Delhi skyline.
How Did Emergency Services Respond To The Incident?
The emergency distress call was logged at approximately 11:00 AM, prompting an immediate high-priority response from city safety authorities due to the prominent location. A fleet of six fire engines was dispatched directly to the venue to tackle the blaze from multiple access points. Firefighters successfully contained and extinguished the fire on the terrace shortly after arriving, keeping it confined to the rooftop boiler unit and preventing any structural spread into the administrative offices below. No injuries or casualties were reported during the containment operation.
Who Witnessed The Morning Smoke Near Parliament?
The rising column of black smoke caught the immediate attention of several passersby and high-profile dignitaries in the surrounding government enclave. Member of Parliament Milind Deora publicly shared his eyewitness observation on social media while traveling toward the parliamentary precinct. He noted seeing dense smoke rising directly behind the iconic red-sandstone structure, expressing concern for the safety of personnel inside and hoping for a rapid emergency response from local fire crews.
Why Is The North Block Building High Profile?
Situated on historic Raisina Hill, North Block is one of New Delhi's most significant heritage government complexes. Built out of red sandstone, the administrative complex stands alongside South Block near Rashtrapati Bhavan. It traditionally houses sensitive federal government bodies, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Finance, making any safety breach or fire hazard in the vicinity a matter of urgent public concern and security oversight.