Massive fire erupts near Noida City Centre; Fire officials fail to control blaze even after 18 hours

A relentless fire has engulfed a dumping yard belonging to the Noida Authority's horticulture department for more than 18 hours, as officials struggle to contain the blaze amidst challenging winds, authorities reported on Tuesday.

The inferno ignited at an open plot situated in Sector 32, where the horticulture department had deposited pruned trees on Monday evening. Authorities suspect the fire was deliberately ignited by two or three individuals, according to statements from authority officials.

Chief Fire Officer of Noida, Pradeep Kumar Choubey, highlighted that the dumping site was laden with dry leaves and wood, fueling the flames further.


"Last evening, we received alerts regarding the fire, prompting immediate deployment of water tenders and firefighters. Despite concerted efforts since then, the fire persists, compounded by challenging winds and intense sunshine," Choubey remarked.

Choubey recalled a similar incident occurring at the same location during the previous year's season, requiring five to six days for complete extinguishment.

"This time, we've been battling the flames for over 18 hours. Our teams are exerting maximum efforts, striving to bring the situation under control promptly," the CFO affirmed.

Regarding the fire's origins, Choubey referenced video evidence implicating antisocial elements, a sentiment corroborated by the Noida Authority's deputy director of the horticulture department.

"With residential and commercial areas in close proximity, concerns regarding the fire's impact are widespread. We remain committed to our firefighting endeavors," Choubey emphasized.

Fifteen water tenders from the fire service unit have been actively engaged, requiring frequent replenishment—amounting to 15-20 times thus far. Additionally, the authority has deployed six earth movers and 20 water tankers to augment firefighting efforts, Choubey disclosed.

The situation remains fluid as authorities intensify their efforts to combat the ongoing blaze, striving to mitigate its impact on surrounding communities and properties.