Fire at multi-storey building claims 7 in Mumbai

A fire at a multi-storey building have killed 7 in Mumbai, the commercial capital of India. At least 15 others were injured at the incident.

The fire broke out in a 20-storey building in Mumbai's Tardeo area around 7 am local time on Saturday (January 22nd).

According to Indian media NDTV , a fire broke out on the 18th floor of 20-storey 'Komla' building opposite to the Gandhi Hospital in Mumbai.

Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar told news agency ANI that six elderly residents of the residential building were in need of oxygen assistance. They were sent to the hospital.

She said there was a lot of smoke coming out even after the fire was under control. Everyone trapped in the building has been rescued.

Upon receiving the news, the police and fire service personnel rushed to the spot. A civil society official said 13 fire engines and seven water jetties were working to control the blaze. It has been identified as a third degree fire.

The injured were rushed to three nearby hospitals, officials said. Five of them died of severe burns at Nair Hospital, one at Kasturba Hospital and another at Bhatia Hospital.

Sharing a video clip of the fire on Twitter, BJP leader Preity Gandhi said, 'As usual, excuses will be made, unreasonable reasons will be given and life will continue.' If this city is to survive, it needs strong political will. Lack of accountability hurts as a Mumbai resident.