Mumbai: A massive fire erupted early this morning in the seven-story Times Tower building, located in the bustling Kamala Mill complex of Lower Parel. The blaze, which began around 6:30 am, reportedly started in the basement and quickly spread to the 5th, 6th, and 7th floors, causing widespread panic in the area.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has classified the incident as a ‘level-two’ fire. In response, eight fire engines and additional firefighting vehicles were dispatched to the scene to combat the flames. As of now, there have been no reports of casualties, but several people are believed to be trapped inside the building.
Firefighting Efforts Underway
Firefighters are working tirelessly to bring the situation under control. The cause of the fire remains unknown at this time, and authorities are conducting a thorough investigation³. Videos from the scene show multiple floors engulfed in flames, with thick smoke billowing into the sky.
Historical Context
This incident brings back memories of a similar tragedy that struck the Kamala Mills Compound on December 29, 2017. A fire in a restaurant resulted in the deaths of 14 people and left around 55 injured. The Kamala Mills complex, a major commercial hub, houses approximately 34 restaurants, bars, and numerous corporate offices.
Community Impact
The fire has caused significant disruption in the Lower Parel area, with residents and workers expressing their concerns over safety measures in commercial buildings. The swift response from the fire department has been commendable, but the incident underscores the need for stringent fire safety protocols in high-rise buildings.
