A fire broke out on Friday evening in a 11-storey building in Vile Parle, resulting in the demise of a 95-year-old senior citizen named Harshada Janardan Pathak. The victim was declared brought dead by doctors at Cooper Hospital.
The fire originated in flat no. 201 on the second floor of Vile Grand Residency building, Punam Baug, Nariman Road, Vile Parle East, according to the BMC. The incident took place at 7:27 pm on Friday in a building that comprises a ground floor and 12 upper floors.
The fire was attributed to the ignition of electric wiring and installations in the house, including items such as the TV, refrigerator, wooden furniture, wooden doors, fall ceiling, and household articles. Firefighters utilised a small house line and three motor pumps to extinguish the fire, cutting off electricity before successfully dousing the flames. The fire was brought under control 30 minutes after it erupted.
Senior citizen succumbed after suffering 25% burns
Ravindra Ambulgekar, the Chief Fire Brigade Officer, stated, "The fire originated from the electric toran (decorative lighting for Diwali) in the home. It quickly engulfed the residence due to the presence of combustible materials such as wooden furniture, sofas, and other electrical installations."
"The 95-year-old woman was alone in the house at the time, as other household members were outside for various reasons. Unfortunately, the lady suffered 25 percent burn injuries and succumbed to her injuries. Fortunately, the fire did not spread to adjacent flats."
Ambulgekar urged citizens to exercise caution during Diwali, advising regular checks on electric torans and lighting until the festival concludes. He emphasized the importance of placing Diyas (lamps) in secure locations.
In light of the Diwali festival and to minimize the risk of further fire incidents, the Mumbai Fire Brigade has launched an awareness campaign in the city. Local fire station officers and staff are actively promoting awareness in their respective neighborhoods. As of today, they have covered 68 locations in Mumbai, including chawls and slum areas.
