28 February,2016 09:40 AM IST | | Tanvi Deshpande
Officials says Tirupati Towers, had no functional fire-fighting equipment; no casualties
A fire broke out on the fourth floor of the 14-storey Tirupati Towers next to Mahalaxmi temple on Saturday. While a senior citizen complained of difficulty in breathing, no other injuries were reported. Chief Fire Officer PS Rahangdale said, "There was fire-fighting equipment in the building but it was not functioning. We will take action against the society as per procedure."
Also read: Major fire breaks out near Mahalaxmi temple; no casualties
Tirupati Towers in Mahalaxmi caught fire at 3.25 pm on Saturday
The fire broke out at the Bhulabhai Desai Road building at around 3.25 pm. It started in Flat No. 401, in the B-wing, allegedly due to a short circuit in the air-conditioner, but the fire brigade is yet to confirm this. The fire was confined to the flat's electrical wiring, installations, kitchen articles, household articles, split AC in an area of 2,200 sq ft. Eight fire engines and five water tankers were rushed to the spot.
Dancer Shiamak Davar leaves Tirupati Towers, where a fire broke out on Saturday. One of the residents works as a manager in Davar's dance company
Meanwhile, the smoke spread through the entire building. People rushed down the staircase or crossed over to the neighbouring wing and took the lift downstairs. There was panic since close to 120 families live in the three wings of the society. A senior citizen, Ajitkumar Rathod, 83, reported difficulty breathing and had to be rushed to Breach Candy Hospital.
People helping an elderly wheel-chair-bound lady across the road after the building she stayed in caught fire. Pics/Bipin Kokate
Another resident, Anil Yadav, was also treated for breathing problems in the fire brigade ambulance.
The fire was doused completely at 6.23 pm.
