A major accident was averted by the Mumbai Fire Brigade on Saturday, when a fire broke out on the second floor of a commercial building in Dadar West. Though the cause is yet not known, the firefighting system of the building was not working and fire officers had tough time controlling the blaze, which was done in three-and-a-half hours. A fireman sustained minor injuries in the operation.
The fire burnt garments, electric wirings, installations, raw materials, computer, furniture and the loft among other things in three units — 211, 212 and 213 — in an area of about 600sqft on the second floor. Eight fire engines were sent to the spot with six water tankers and an aerial ladder platform, breathing apparatus and ambulance.
A fire officer said, "Because the firefighting system was not working, assistant commissioner of G-north ward and the BEST have been asked not to restore the building's electric and water supply till it's fixed. The police have been asked to seal the building till the system is made operational."
The fire department has initiated inspection drives for various premises due to increase in serious fire incidents. The move has come after the public appeal issued by the brigade in various newspapers failed to up the compliance level. Submission of B form every six months by residential societies is not taken seriously. Hence, notices are now issued to inspected premises with reminder of stringent action in case of default.
More than 500 inspections were carried out and reminders for compliance were sent to 275 societies. If the societies don't comply in the stipulated time, they will be face prosecution, fine and jail.
