Tragic Fire in Mumbai Flat Claims Life of Woman on Eve of Son's Wedding
A devastating fire erupted in a high-rise apartment in Mumbai's Vile Parle area on Monday, resulting in the tragic death of a 62-year-old woman just one day before her son's wedding. The blaze, which is suspected to have originated from a lit diya as part of wedding rituals, caused extensive damage and left a 34-year-old relative with burn injuries.
Details of the Incident and Rescue Efforts
The fire broke out around 9:40 AM in a flat on the uppermost floor of a 13-storey building. Officials reported that fire engines arrived swiftly, and both women—identified as Bhavana Bharat Satra, the deceased, and Aneri Jitendra Satra, the injured—were rescued and rushed to Nanavati Hospital. Bhavana was declared dead before admission, while Aneri, who sustained 6% burns, was admitted to the ICU.
Firefighters battled the flames for over three hours, finally bringing the blaze under control at 12:54 PM. The operation involved a significant deployment of resources, including:
- Five fire engines and two tankers
- Two aerial water tower tenders and a hydraulic platform
- A turntable ladder and a breathing apparatus van
- An ambulance for medical support
Rescuers used three hose lines—two small and one high-pressure—from five motor pumps, with additional support from the building's fixed firefighting system and a hose line from a turntable ladder.
Extensive Damage and Suspected Cause
The fire ravaged the home, destroying electrical wiring, installations, furniture, clothes, household articles, and appliances such as an air-conditioner, refrigerator, and washing machine. Decorative items and the kitchen's false ceiling were also damaged. The flames spread to an adjacent flat owned by the same family, affecting electrical systems and gym equipment.
While fire officials have not yet officially determined the cause, neighbors and witnesses suggest that a diya kept lit in the house temple for wedding rituals may have ignited a nearby mattress, leading to the rapid spread of the fire. A family acquaintance noted that only the two women were inside the flat at the time, while other family members were on the terrace.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns
Senior fire officers, along with station officers and brigade personnel, supervised the operation, utilizing the building's fire safety equipment during the response. The incident raises questions about fire safety protocols in residential buildings, especially during events involving open flames like rituals.
The community in Vile Parle has been left in shock by this tragic event, which underscores the importance of vigilance with fire hazards in homes. Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the blaze as the family mourns the loss on what should have been a joyous occasion.
