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FireIncident – A fire that broke out in the early hours of Tuesday disrupted normal life at a high-rise residential building in Maharashtra’s Thane city, injuring two residents and prompting a large-scale rescue operation. Swift action by emergency teams ensured that dozens of people trapped by smoke were brought to safety without further harm.

Fire Reported Before Dawn in Residential Tower

According to officials from the Thane Municipal Corporation, the fire was reported at around 4.14 am at the Milan Hill building, an 18-storey residential complex located in the Shastri Nagar area. The incident began on the 10th floor, where flames were first noticed inside an electric duct. Given the early hour, many residents were asleep when the fire started, increasing the risk posed by the spreading smoke.

Emergency control rooms were alerted immediately, and fire brigade units along with disaster management personnel were rushed to the site. Residents were advised to remain calm as responders assessed the situation and began rescue efforts.

Smoke Spreads Across Multiple Floors

Officials said the fire quickly spread vertically through the electric duct, affecting floors between the 10th and 13th levels of the building. While the flames themselves remained largely confined to the duct area, thick smoke travelled through common spaces and stairwells, making it difficult for residents to evacuate on their own.

The smoke reduced visibility inside the building and caused breathing discomfort for several occupants. As a result, many residents were unable to exit safely without assistance, leading to a coordinated rescue effort by emergency teams.

Dozens Rescued by Fire and Disaster Teams

Nearly 70 residents were reported trapped inside the building due to the smoke. Firefighters and disaster management staff used protective gear to enter the affected floors and guide residents to safety. In some cases, individuals were escorted down staircases, while others were assisted through safer exit routes identified during the operation.

Officials credited the timely response and coordination between departments for preventing panic and avoiding serious casualties. By the time the situation was brought under control, all trapped residents had been safely evacuated.

Elderly Residents Sustain Burn Injuries

Two residents, aged 62 and 74, suffered burn injuries during the incident. They were promptly shifted to nearby private hospitals for medical treatment. Authorities confirmed that both individuals were receiving care and that their condition was being monitored.

No other injuries were reported, though several residents were assessed for smoke-related discomfort as a precautionary measure.

Property Damage Limited to Affected Floor

The fire caused damage primarily to the electric duct where it originated, as well as to the main doors of two flats located on the 10th floor. Officials noted that there was no structural damage to the building, and fire safety teams worked to ensure that the affected area was secured before residents were allowed to return.

The blaze was fully extinguished by around 5.30 am, less than an hour and a half after it was first reported. Cooling operations and safety checks continued for some time afterward to prevent any possibility of re-ignition.

Cause of Fire Under Investigation

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Electrical faults are being examined as a possible factor, though officials said no conclusions would be drawn until a detailed assessment is completed.

Civic officials also indicated that fire safety compliance and electrical maintenance records of the building would be reviewed as part of the inquiry. Residents have been advised to report any lingering issues and to follow safety instructions issued by the local administration.