A suspected gas leak caused a devastating fire in T Dasarahalli, northern Bengaluru, on Monday, leaving three family members critically injured, including a two-year-old girl. Two neighbors also suffered minor injuries from flying debris.

The injured family includes Deeju Das (36), Anjali Das (35), and their daughter Manushree Das. Neighbors Manoj Kumar (18) and Shobha (40) sustained minor wounds. The family is being treated at Victoria Hospital, where doctors report Anjali has 95% burns, while Deeju has 64%. Little Manushree suffered 10% burns, mostly on her face.

Firefighters responded to a distress call at 9 a.m., and initial investigations suggest the fire may have been triggered by a gas leak, possibly ignited while using a stove or an electrical appliance. The blast’s impact damaged nearby houses, shattering doors and windows. Police and fire officials are conducting a detailed probe.

In a separate incident, a garment factory in Nagasandra was destroyed by fire, causing significant losses of raw materials and machinery worth several lakhs. Investigators suspect a short circuit but are also exploring the possibility of arson for insurance fraud. The factory owners have been summoned for questioning.

Both incidents highlight the urgent need for fire safety awareness and stricter compliance measures.