MOHALI, June 30 —A nine-month-old girl was killed and two others were critically injured in a devastating fire at a dye-manufacturing unit in Mohali’s Industrial Area Phase-3 on Monday morning, officials confirmed.
According to reports, the fire broke out at around 9:45 a.m. in a factory located at plot D-39 in the Shahi Majra locality with Fire department officials stating that the blaze started when a small gas cylinder, reportedly used for making tea in a temporary cabin inside the factory, caught fire and rapidly spread due to the presence of flammable materials.
“The factory was involved in dye production, and highly combustible substances were stored on-site. Once the cylinder caught fire, the situation escalated very quickly,” said Suresh Kumar, a senior official from the fire department.
By the time fire engines arrived and teams began pouring water to douse the flames, the factory was engulfed. Despite best efforts, the blaze destroyed all contents inside the unit and claimed the life of the infant girl, who died on the spot. The injured—identified as the factory owner, Varinder, and a woman named Babita—suffered severe burn injuries and were rushed to the government hospital in Mohali for emergency treatment.
According to officials, the fire broke out in a temporary structure within the factory premises where beds and basic amenities, including tea-making facilities, had been set up.
The incident has triggered shock and sorrow across Shahi Majra and surrounding areas. “It’s heartbreaking to see a child lose her life like this. The entire locality is mourning,” said a resident.
Both Mohali Police and the fire brigade have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze. While initial findings point to a cylinder explosion, authorities are examining all possible angles, including safety lapses.
“This tragedy raises serious concerns over industrial safety standards and living arrangements within factory premises,” a police official involved in the probe said.
The district administration is expected to review safety protocols in small-scale industrial units following the incident.
