Six of Family Killed as Massive Fire Engulfs Three-Storey Building in MP’s Katni

November 9, 2026

Madhya Pradesh: A massive fire broke out in a three-story building in Katni on Diwali night, killing six members of a family. A tragic incident occurred on Diwali night in Barhi, Katni district, Madhya Pradesh. A fire suddenly broke out in Puran Agarwal’s crockery shop around 12:00 AM. The fire quickly engulfed the three-story building. 77-year-old Puran Agarwal, his wife Chandrakala, daughter-in-law Poonam, 14-year-old Arya, 6-year-old Anvi, and a two-month-old baby died in the accident.

A rescue and relief operation continued throughout the night following the accident. Puran Agarwal was rescued around 4:30 AM. Five other family members were subsequently rescued by breaking down a wall using a JCB at 6:30 AM.

Fire brigade vehicle pipes malfunctioned

While extinguishing the fire, the fire engines developed a technical fault in the pipes, significantly hindering control. Local youth from Barhi also participated in the rescue and relief efforts. He risked his own life to save others.

This tragic accident has raised serious questions about the fire department’s preparedness and administrative system. Questions are being raised about why the firefighting system was inadequate during a major festival like Diwali. Could the lives of six people have been saved if better arrangements had been made in time?