Tragic Suffocation Incident Claims Three Lives at Hisar Furniture Factory
In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, three workers lost their lives due to suffocation, while two others are fighting for their lives after inhaling toxic fumes inside a sealed room at a furniture factory in Dhandhur village near Hisar on Monday. The tragedy unfolded during the Republic Day holiday, highlighting the precarious conditions faced by migrant laborers in industrial settings.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The catastrophic event occurred after the workers, seeking warmth in the chilly weather, lit a fire in an iron bucket inside their room and subsequently fell asleep. Unbeknownst to them, the combustion process generated a lethal accumulation of toxic gases within the enclosed space, leading to severe oxygen depletion and poisoning.
The deceased have been identified as:
- Anuj, a resident of Azamgarh district in Uttar Pradesh, who had reportedly tied the knot just two months prior to this tragedy.
- Sahil, also hailing from Azamgarh district in Uttar Pradesh.
- Amarjeet, who lived in Ambedkar Colony, Hisar.
The two surviving workers, Shiva and Sanjay, were immediately referred to a private hospital in Hisar for advanced medical treatment, where they remain in critical condition, battling the effects of toxic inhalation.
Sequence of Events and Rescue Attempt
According to police reports and factory sources, all five workers had arrived in Dhandhur village merely five days before the incident to commence employment at the furniture manufacturing unit. With the factory remaining closed on Monday in observance of Republic Day, the laborers stayed inside their temporary accommodation.
Suspicion began to mount around 1 PM when fellow workers noticed unusual circumstances: the lights outside the room remained illuminated, yet there was absolutely no movement or activity detectable from within. A concerned colleague residing in nearby quarters promptly alerted other employees about the alarming situation.
When workers peered through a glass window positioned above the room, they were met with a horrifying sight—all five individuals were lying unconscious on the floor. In a desperate rescue attempt, they broke open the window and poured water inside before gaining entry to the room. Inside, they discovered the fire still smoldering in the iron bucket, with the room locked from the inside, indicating the workers had been trapped with the toxic emissions.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Emergency services were immediately summoned, and an ambulance rushed all five workers to Hisar Civil Hospital. Medical professionals at the facility declared Anuj, Sahil, and Amarjeet dead upon arrival, while Shiva and Sanjay were transferred to a private hospital for specialized care due to their grave condition.
Police teams swiftly reached the accident site and have launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this preventable tragedy. Preliminary findings suggest the fire caused a dangerous buildup of toxic gases, primarily carbon monoxide, which led to suffocation and poisoning of the occupants.
Authorities have stated that further legal action will be initiated upon completion of all necessary formalities, including post-mortem examinations and detailed forensic analysis of the incident scene.
Broader Implications and Safety Concerns
This devastating incident raises serious questions about workplace safety protocols, particularly in smaller manufacturing units and temporary worker accommodations. The practice of using open flames for heating in poorly ventilated spaces represents a significant hazard that requires immediate attention from regulatory bodies.
The tragedy also underscores the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers who often find themselves in unfamiliar environments with inadequate safety awareness and protections. As investigations continue, this event serves as a sobering reminder of the critical importance of proper ventilation, fire safety education, and emergency preparedness in all living and working spaces.
