Seven people, including six women, suffered severe burn injuries of up to 90% after a gas cylinder exploded in a catering service kitchen in Kandivali’s Akurli area. The victims have been taken to the National Burns Centre in Airoli, Kaustubh Hospital, and Aum Superspeciality Hospital in Borivali. All seven victims are in critical condition.
Incident Location and Time
The explosion occurred at Ram Kisan Mestri Chawl, besides, opposite ESIC Hospital, Military Road, Akurli Cross Road No. 3, Kandivali East. The Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) received the report at 9:05 AM on Wednesday morning.
Establishment Details
According to sources, the kitchen was operated by 'Shivani Caterers' and did not hold the required permissions from the local ward office, police, or fire brigade.
“The shop was around 10x12 square feet, and a catering services kitchen was running there. The owners had shifted to the place two days ago, carrying the business from two shops ahead in the same building. The establishment did not have fire safety clearances,” said Deputy Fire Officer Harish Shetty.
Victim Details and Hospitalization
The victims taken to the National Burns Centre in Airoli include Shivani Gandhi (51) – 70% burn; Nitu Gupta (31) – 80% burn; Janaki Gupta (39) – 70% burn; and Manaram Kumavat (55) – 40% burn.
Raksha Joshi (47) – 85 to 90% burn was admitted to Kasturba Hospital, while Durga Gupta (30) – 85 to 90% burn and Poonam (28) – 90% burn were taken to Aum Superspeciality Hospital, Borivali.
Cause and Fire Brigade Statement
“The victims were transferred to Aum Hospital, Borivali, and the National Burns Centre in Airoli. Their conditions are critical. The severe burn injuries were caused by a cylinder blast, resulting in an instant massive fire,” the fire officer said.
