Mumbai: Swift Action by Fire Officials Saves 17 in Malad West Shopping Center Blaze
Malad, 28th December 2023: In Mumbai, a shopping centre in Malad West faced a fire incident on Wednesday evening, leading to the successful rescue of 17 individuals, including four women, by prompt action from fire officials. The fire, which broke out at 6:50 pm in the two-story ‘Acme’ shopping centre on Jain Mandir road, was contained within two hours, and fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The incident occurred during busy hours, raising concerns about a potential dozen people being trapped on the first and second floors. Fire officials, accompanied by police and P North ward staff, quickly responded, initiating firefighting operations.
The fire, confined to an air-conditioned unit on the first floor, affected electric wiring, installations, wooden furniture, and materials in two to three shops. Classified as a level one (minor) incident, the authorities dispatched five engines and four water tankers to the scene, utilizing two small hose lines and five motor pumps for operation. Ventilation efforts were made by opening windows.
According to a fire official, the swift response prevented the fire from spreading, bringing it under control within an hour. Shoppers and some customers evacuated the building, while eight individuals on the first floor and nine stranded on the second floor were safely brought down using staircases equipped with breathing apparatus.
Ravindra Ambulgekar, chief fire officer, provided initial insights, stating that the fire seemingly originated in the AC unit. Further investigation will determine the precise cause of the incident.
