Noida High-Rise Fire Traps 150, Injures 14 as Safety Failures Emerge

An air-conditioner explosion at Krishna Apra Plaza sparked a fire, leading to dramatic rescues, injuries, and scrutiny over fire safety compliance.

The fire, triggered by an air-conditioner compressor explosion, broke out on the first floor of Krishna Apra Plaza on April 1, 2025, spreading dense smoke throughout the eight-story building.
At least 14 people sustained injuries, including fractures, burns, and smoke inhalation, with most reported to be stable after treatment at local hospitals.
Emergency services rescued nearly 150 people, though conflicting accounts emerged about the timeliness of their response, with officials claiming a four-minute arrival time.
Authorities found that the building's firefighting system was only 60% functional and had not been activated during the incident, raising concerns about compliance with fire safety regulations.
Despite the fire and unresolved safety investigations, businesses on the ground floor resumed operations just hours after the blaze was extinguished.