Surat: At least 20 students of a coaching class were killed and several others injured as a fire broke on Friday afternoon in a commercial complex which housed the coaching centre in which the students were attending classes.

The fire engulfed the third and fourth floor of the Takshashila Complex here, he said.

It was reported that some students died as they jumped off the building in a bid to save their lives as the fire had engulfed the entire building while others died because of smoke.

Visuals on TV channels showed students jumping off the third and fourth floors of the building.

The primary reports state that the fire was caused due to short circuit and spread rapidly engulfing the entire building.

A fire official said 19 fire tenders and two hydraulic platforms were pressed into service to douse the fire.

Locals were seen helping in the rescue operation to save stranded students as well as other occupants of the four-storey building.

"Students on fourth and third floor jumped off to the ground to save themselves from fire and smoke. Many have been rescued and sent to a hospital. The operation to douse the fire is on," said a fire official.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his grief and condolences. He also said that the Gujarat government shall assist in the rescue efforts.

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay  Rupani has ordered an official enquiry into the incident.

The enquiry will be conducted by the Secretary, Urban Development and Urban Housing Development and the report shall be presented to the Chief Minister in three days.

The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakhs for the family of the deceased students.