Massive fire near Mumbai's Bandra station
What's the story
A massive blaze broke out this afternoon in Mumbai's Behrampada slums, near Bandra station. Earlier today, the BMC conducted a demolition drive there. At least eight fire engines and six water tankers were immediately rushed to Garib Nagar at around 3pm. Initial reports suggest it was caused by a cylinder blast. However, official confirmation is awaited. No casualties have been reported yet.
Twitter Post
Visuals of the blaze
I'm outside #Bandra station mumbai right now and the fire is BIG now...help needed urgently !! pic.twitter.com/fpZ6s4oLwd
— ZAKIR KHAN (@dzakirkhan) October 26, 2017
Risk
Hundreds of illegal high-rise shanties in the area
There have been multiple incidents of fire in the area in the last few years. The unauthorized high-rise shanties nearby have been deemed a hazard by both BMC and police. During a 2016 survey, officials calculated over 500 two/three-storey shanties and 350 five-storey shanties in the area. Demolition attempts are mostly met with resistance. Despite attempts, BMC hasn't been able to leave an impact.