A significant fire broke out on the 42nd floor of the Salsette 27 building, located on Babasaheb Ambedkar Road near New Grade Insta Mill, Byculla East, Mumbai, at approximately 10:45 AM on February 28, 2025. Fire crews from the Mumbai Fire Brigade were immediately dispatched to the scene, stating it was classified as a Level-I fire. According to initial reports, the blaze was contained to the 42nd floor.
Authorities confirmed no injuries have been reported so far, providing some relief amid chaotic scenes where thick black smoke billowed from the building's lifted glass façade. Fire brigade officials assured the public and the media of their resources and response strategy, stating, “We are actively working to control the situation and prevent any spread of the fire.”
The firefighting operations saw the deployment of five fire engines, three jumbo tankers, and advanced equipment including a high-pressure vehicle and specialized high-rise firefighting tools. Emergency response teams from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), BEST, and Mumbai Police were also active at the site, assisting evacuation procedures and ensuring public safety. Two ambulances were stationed nearby as precautionary measures.
Witnesses described the intensity of the fire, with plumes of smoke visible from several blocks away. Local resident Sonu Kanojia tweeted images showcasing the frightening spectacle, stating, “I saw thick black smoke rising from Salsette 27—it looked really bad.” The fire’s causes remain unknown, with investigations to commence once the situation is stabilized.
Building occupants were instructed to evacuate swiftly following emergency protocols. Firefighters worked tirelessly amid dwindling light and increasing smoke conditions to navigate the high-rise and manage the flames effectively. The area surrounding the building was cordoned off to keep bystanders at a safe distance from the growing emergency.
Officials remain on-site managing the operations and releasing updates. Public reports have indicated urgent firefighting practices as various agencies collaborated harmoniously. A spokesman from the Mumbai Fire Brigade flagged the situation’s seriousness but expressed confidence due to extensive equipment and trained staff on-site.
While the incident unfolded, the local community was reassured by responders' presence, which lent some measure of calm. “Our teams are well-prepared for emergencies like these, and we appreciate the community's cooperation during such crises,” stated Harsh Patil, chief of operations for Mumbai Fire Brigade.
The Salsette 27 building is one of two high-rises located alongside each other, built with high safety standards, yet incidents like this highlight the potential hazards of urban living. The last recorded fire incident of similar magnitude occurred earlier this month when residents were successfully evacuated from Marine Chambers, showcasing the diligence of the emergency services.
Local authorities have tasked the Mumbai Fire Brigade with conducting a thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of this fire and to apply lessons learned for future prevention strategies. Updates on the condition and safety of the building will be released as more information becomes available.
The level of emergency response reflects developments within the city's fire safety protocols, which are continuously under scrutiny and adaptation. Citizens are advised to stay vigilant for future updates as firefighting crews continue to work diligently.
The Byculla fire incident, becoming news across local media, serves as both a warning and reminder of the potential dangers inherent to urban living, particularly concerning safety measures and emergency preparedness.
This story is still developing, and readers will remain informed about any developments surrounding the incident, including the results of the investigation and community responses. While injuries have not been reported, the community's urgent safety concerns highlight the necessity of responsive and proactive measures from local authorities.
With gratitude to the first responders and the organized effort of multiple agencies, the incident against all odds highlights commitment to public safety and emergent response protocols to effectively safeguard human lives.