Two killed, 18 injured in cotton godown fire near Bommanahalli; families left without support

Tragedy struck near Bommanahalli  when a massive fire broke out at a cotton godown around 3 PM, resulting in the deaths of two people and injuries to 18 others. Eyewitnesses reported that as flames engulfed the building, the public attempted to douse the fire by pouring water in buckets.

Amid the chaos, a gas cylinder inside the godown exploded, causing further panic and injuries. Several of the injured were rushed to St John’s, Ashwak, and Victoria Hospitals for treatment. However, due to a lack of immediate medical attention, two victims from Raichur and Andhra Pradesh succumbed to their burn injuries.

Shockingly, neither the godown owners nor local officials visited the hospital to check on the victims or offer support. Families of the injured have been camping at hospital premises for days, crying out for help and expressing deep anguish over the lack of concern for the lives of the poor.

One victim’s elder sister stated that a marriage engagement had to be called off due to the tragedy. The godown, reportedly operated for over 20 years by Wasim and Nadeem under the name ‘Bedroom’, is now under investigation. A case has been registered against the father-son duo at the Bommanahalli Police Station. Bereaved families are appealing for assistance as they struggle to cope with their losses.