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In the early hours of Wednesday morning last week, a level II fire broke out in Byculla West, engulfing several structures, including the Jubali building and Dhobighat chawl, located opposite Saifee Manizil. This conflagration, which began around 7:30 a.m., resulted in the destruction of an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 square feet of the affected area. Astoundingly, no injuries were reported as the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) executed a commendable rescue operation, ensuring the safe evacuation of multiple individuals from the premises. The impacted structure was a hybrid, accommodating both residential homes and manufacturing-cum-warehouse units. These manufacturing units were engaged in the production and storage of diverse goods, ranging from purses and shoulder bags to shoes and chappals, subsequently distributed to various retail outlets. Notably, the workers responsible for the stitching and assembly processes hailed predominantly from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, forming a community that both worked and resided within the same structural confines. Amid the chaos, Mohammed Maji, a skilled worker specializing in the art of stitching shoulder bags and purses, shared insights into the situation. He emphasized the workers' abrupt displacement, noting the scarcity of their possessions in the affected area, limited to a few items of clothing. Preliminary estimates by on-site workers and fire officials suggested the presence of approximately four to five manufacturing units in the affected area. These units, characterized by makeshift storeys and roofing composed of GI sheets, housed uninsured stored items, further compounding the challenges faced by those grappling with the aftermath of the fire. The incident deeply affected Mohammed Faisan, who lamented the losses sustained by his relatives owning manufacturing units within the structure. He conveyed the devastating reality that they had lost everything, estimating the total loss to be substantial. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with initial suspicions pointing towards a potential short circuit. The intricate circumstances surrounding the incident demand a thorough examination to ascertain the root cause. As the day unfolded, questions arose about the temporary accommodations for the displaced workers. Mohammed Maji revealed that the warehouse owner had assured arrangements for their stay. However, Gufran Khan, involved in the shoemaking process, hinted at the possibility of seeking refuge on the footpath or at a friend's place. The uncertainty of their immediate future and the potential need to return to their native villages loomed over their plans. On the top floor at the front of the structure, three families found themselves in a precarious situation. While the fire had not reached their homes, thick, choking smoke infiltrated their living spaces, necessitating a swift evacuation until conditions improved. During the incident, Sabahat Rasool, a resident, shared the tense experience of evacuating and waiting on the street until the area was safe, expressing relief that the fire spared their homes. He emphasized the vulnerability of the structure, citing its history since the 2008 collapse. Factors like limited ventilation, the use of inflammable materials, and residents living and cooking within the same space were noted as potential contributors to the rapid-fire spread.
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