Mumbai: No Fire Safety System In SoBo High-Rise Where 2 Died, Notice Being Sent

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has begun removing temporary unauthorised constructions on the terrace of Panna Ali Mansion in Masjid Bunder, where two residents lost their lives in a fire on Sunday morning.

Meanwhile, the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) is set to issue a notice to the building management for failing to comply with fire safety regulations, as per reports. A fire brigade team inspected the building on Monday and officials are now verifying its records, including permissions granted and any pending legal disputes.

No Firefighting System In High-rise

Authorities found that the building had no firefighting system in place, a violation of the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measure Act. A fire brigade officer confirmed that a notice will be served for this non-compliance.

Officials also noted that the congested area posed challenges for fire engines during the rescue operation. The incident occurred early in the morning when the lanes were relatively empty, preventing further casualties. However, several parked trucks and vehicles obstructed access to the site, delaying emergency response.

A B-ward official from the civic body stated that temporary structures on the terrace have been removed as part of enforcement measures. However, before taking further action against the building, authorities will conduct a thorough review of its records, as reported by Times of India.

Details On The Fire Incident

The fire broke out at Panna Ali Mansion, a 12-storey residential building on Issaji Street, Vadgadi, near Ram Mandir in Mumbai’s Masjid Bunder. The Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) received the report at 6:11 am and arrived promptly. The fire was confined to electric wiring and installations in the common meter box and passage on the ground floor. Though it was extinguished by 6:31 AM, thick smoke spread throughout the building, leading to suffocation-related fatalities and injuries.

Two women lost their lives due to the smoke. Dr. Yagnik, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at J J Hospital, confirmed the deaths of Sajiya Alam Shaikh, 30, and Sabila Khatun Shaikh, 42, who also suffered burn injuries. Both were declared brought dead at the hospital.

Among the injured, three residents were hospitalised for smoke inhalation. Shahin Shaikh, 22, was admitted to J J Hospital, where she remains stable, while Karim Shaikh, 20, was taken to G T Hospital and is also in stable condition. Emergency responders, including MFB, police and BEST staff, worked swiftly to evacuate residents and contain the situation.