A significant fire broke out at a high-rise residential tower in Mumbai's Andheri West on Thursday morning, leading to the rescue of nearly 40 individuals. Officials confirmed that the incident, which started around 10 am, did not result in any injuries.
Mass Rescue Operation in Andheri
The fire erupted at Sorrento Tower on Veera Desai Road, near Country Club. According to a civic official, between 30 to 40 people were successfully evacuated from the 16th-floor refuge area using the building's staircase. In a more challenging operation, three other residents, including one woman, were rescued from a 15th-floor apartment with the aid of breathing apparatus.
Extent of Damage and Celebrity Connection
The flames caused extensive damage to the electrical infrastructure and interior spaces. The official stated that the fire affected wiring and components within the electrical shaft spanning from the 10th to the 21st floors. It also damaged routers, shoe racks, and wooden furniture located near ducts on various levels.
The 12th, 13th, and 14th floors were completely gutted. Notably, the 14th floor houses the premises of renowned filmmaker Sandeep Singh, known for producing movies like Mary Kom, Sarbjit, Aligarh, Jhund, Savarkar, Safed, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Singh, who had recently been discharged from Kokilaben Hospital after hernia treatment, was taken as a precaution to the residence of actor Ankita Lokhande and her husband Vicky Jain immediately after the fire was reported.
Firefighting Response and Investigation
The Mumbai Fire Brigade responded swiftly to the emergency, deploying at least four fire engines and other essential equipment to the site. Their efforts brought the blaze under control, and it was fully extinguished by 11:37 am.
While the prompt action of firefighters and rescue personnel ensured no lives were lost, the cause of the fire remains unknown. Authorities have stated that an investigation to ascertain the origin of the fire is still pending.
