Morning blaze at high-rise in Kurla kills one, injures 21

The deceased has been identified as Shakuntala Ramani who, according to sources in the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), possibly died due to smoke inhalation. MFB officials said that after the disaster control room was alerted, four fire engines, along with three jumbo water tankers, one breathing apparatus van and an ambulance, were pressed into service.

The flames were extinguished around 8.40 am after an operation that lasted for more than two hours.

The officials also said that the incident took place in an old SRA building in Kurla, which didn’t have an in-built fire-fighting system.

“The blaze had erupted inside the building and spread through the electrical ducts so intensely that pocket fires were seen between the fourth and 10th floor of the building. Due to this, the interiors were filled with thick smoke and visibility became an issue,” said Sanjay Manjrekar, chief fire officer.

“Many people were stranded inside the building and fire brigade officials rescued them by using the staircase of this building. Due to the thick blanket of smoke, visibility became an issue,” said Manjrekar.

Fire officials said several building residents suffered from smoke inhalation and they were admitted to Rajawadi Hospital for treatment.

Seven of them have been discharged while 13, who are still undergoing treatment, are currently stable.

Shivram, the husband of the victim Shakuntala, was also injured and was hospitalised.

Fire Brigade officials said the flames must have originated from a short circuit and a detailed investigation will be carried out.