Jobaaj Stories
River Valley Road Fire: Tragedy Strikes Singapore Education Centre
A devastating fire ripped through a shophouse on Singapore's River Valley Road on Tuesday, April 8th, resulting in one child's death and the hospitalization of 18 others—four adults and 15 children. The incident, which unfolded at the Orange Mood Group education center (278 River Valley Road), highlighted both the swift response of emergency services and the incredible bravery of bystanders.
A Harrowing Rescue
The fire, which rapidly engulfed the second and third floors of the three-story building, trapped several children on a third-story ledge. Dramatic videos shared on social media showed plumes of black smoke billowing from the windows as terrified children waited for rescue. Construction workers and members of the public, demonstrating remarkable courage, formed a human chain using scaffolding and ladders to bring the children to safety. Their selfless actions undoubtedly saved lives during the terrifying ordeal. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) arrived promptly, deploying rescue ladders and a Combined Platform Ladder to assist in the rescue efforts and extinguish the blaze within 30 minutes using three water jets. Approximately 80 people were evacuated from the building and surrounding areas.
Investigation Underway
The SCDF stated that the cause of the fire is currently under investigation. While the Orange Mood Group, which operates a cooking school and educational camps within the building, awaits further details, the incident has shaken the community. The swift response of the SCDF, combined with the extraordinary efforts of ordinary citizens, prevented a larger tragedy. However, the loss of a young life serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers of fire and the importance of fire safety precautions.
Impact and Aftermath
The incident garnered significant media attention, particularly due to the injury of Mark Shankar, son of Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. Mr. Kalyan was reportedly informed and is facing the difficult decision of returning to Singapore to be with his son. The incident underscores the vulnerability of children in such situations and the crucial role of community support in times of crisis. The tragedy highlights the need for stringent safety measures in educational institutions and the importance of community preparedness for such emergencies.
