Horror Fire in Hanoi: 56 Dead and Dozens Injured in Apartment Blaze
A deadly fire tore through a nine-floor apartment block in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, leaving 56 people dead and dozens more injured. The blaze erupted around midnight on Wednesday and was finally brought under control by 2 a.m., local time, the Vietnam News Agency confirmed.
Trapped Residents and Tragic Loss
The Hanoi police revealed the grim toll, confirming 56 fatalities, including four children. Another 37 people were injured, many suffering from smoke inhalation while desperately trying to escape the inferno that engulfed the building, home to roughly 150 residents.
Heartbreaking scenes unfolded as firefighters battled the flames into the early hours. Witnesses reported hearing frantic cries for help with no escape routes available. One chilling account spoke of a small child being hurled from a high floor in a tragic bid for survival.
Prime Minister Orders Immediate Inquiry
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visited the disaster site and hospitalised survivors, demanding a full investigation. Fires have become a worrying pattern in Vietnam, especially in entertainment hotspots like karaoke bars.
- Last year, 32 died in a Ho Chi Minh City karaoke bar fire, leading to the owner’s arrest over fire safety violations.
- In 2018, 13 were killed in a Ho Chi Minh City apartment blaze.
- Another Hanoi karaoke venue fire in 2016 claimed 13 lives.
Fire Safety Concerns Continue to Haunt Vietnam
This latest tragedy shines a harsh light on fire safety issues across the country. Officials have stepped up inspections of high-risk locations following a string of deadly fires in recent years.
The heartbreaking loss in Hanoi is a stark reminder of the urgent need for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent further disasters.
