A terrifying blaze broke out in a high-rise residential building in Mumbai's Kandivali area on Tuesday, sending panic through the neighborhood and triggering an emergency response that saved eight residents from the engulfed apartment.
The fire, which started in a seventh-floor flat of the multi-storey building, quickly spread through the unit, filling the corridors with thick, toxic smoke. Neighbors reported hearing screams and seeing flames shooting from the windows as the situation escalated rapidly.
Heroic Rescue Operation
Fire department teams rushed to the scene within minutes of receiving the distress call. Using specialized equipment and breathing apparatus, firefighters battled through intense heat and poor visibility to reach trapped residents.
"Our teams acted with exceptional bravery and professionalism," said a senior fire official. "They managed to evacuate eight people from the affected flat and adjacent units despite challenging conditions."
Critical Condition
Three of the rescued individuals suffered severe smoke inhalation and burns, requiring immediate intensive care. They were rushed to a nearby hospital where medical staff confirmed their critical condition.
"All three patients are currently in the ICU and receiving round-the-clock monitoring," stated a hospital spokesperson. "Their condition remains serious but stable."
Safety Concerns Raised
The incident has reignited concerns about fire safety measures in Mumbai's high-rise buildings. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit, though official confirmation is pending.
Local residents expressed relief that the tragedy wasn't worse, but questioned whether adequate fire safety protocols were in place. "We've been raising concerns about fire safety in this building for months," said one resident who wished to remain anonymous.
The fire department has launched a full investigation into the incident while municipal authorities have promised to conduct safety audits of residential buildings across the city.
