A Daring Rescue Amidst Flames
In a remarkable display of courage, four Indian migrant workers in Singapore risked their lives to rescue children and adults trapped in a raging fire at a shophouse. On April 8, 2025, a fire broke out at a three-story shophouse on River Valley Road, which housed the Tomato Cooking School. The blaze resulted in 22 casualties, including 16 children aged between six and ten, and six adults aged between 23 and 55.
Heroes in Action
Upon hearing screams and noticing thick smoke billowing from the third-floor window, Inderjit Singh, Subramanian Saranraj, Nagarajan Anbarasan, and Sivasami Vijayaraj, who were working nearby, sprang into action. Without hesitation, they grabbed a scaffold and ladder from their workplace opposite the shophouse and rushed to the scene. Demonstrating exceptional bravery, they used the scaffold and ladder to reach children stranded on the ledge of the burning building. Working together, they formed a human chain, passing the children and adults to safety. Within ten minutes, before the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) arrived, they had rescued ten individuals.
Official Recognition
The Singapore government, acknowledging their selfless act, honored the four workers with the Friends of Assurance, Care, and Engagement (ACE) coins. The Manpower Ministry’s ACE Group, responsible for safeguarding migrant workers’ well-being, praised their quick thinking and bravery, emphasizing the strength of community in times of need.
A Community United
This incident highlights the profound impact of community solidarity and swift action during emergencies. The workers’ decision to prioritize the safety of others over their own, without waiting for official rescue teams, exemplifies extraordinary heroism. Their actions not only saved lives but also reinforced the importance of looking out for one another, especially in critical situations.
Conclusion
The bravery exhibited by Inderjit Singh, Subramanian Saranraj, Nagarajan Anbarasan, and Sivasami Vijayaraj serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of community and selflessness. Their quick and decisive actions prevented a potential tragedy from claiming more lives, and their recognition by the Singapore government underscores the value of such heroism. In a world where acts of kindness can sometimes be overshadowed, their story shines as a beacon of hope and humanity.
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