Major Blaze Breaks Out in Surat High-Rise, 50 Rescued

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Major Blaze Breaks Out in Surat High-Rise, 50 Rescued

Synopsis

A significant fire erupted in the Happy Excellencia residential tower in Surat, Gujarat, early Friday. Over 50 residents were safely evacuated by emergency services, with no casualties reported. The fire affected multiple floors, prompting a swift response from local authorities.

Key Takeaways

  • Over 50 residents rescued
  • Fire started on eighth floor
  • No casualties reported
  • Emergency services responded promptly
  • Investigation into the cause underway

Surat, April 11 (NationPress) Over 50 individuals were successfully rescued following a significant fire that erupted early on Friday morning at the Happy Excellencia residential tower situated in the affluent Vesu area of Gujarat's Surat.

The severity of the fire incited widespread panic and necessitated a large-scale emergency response.

The inferno reportedly ignited around 8:00 a.m. on the eighth floor of the high-rise and rapidly spread to the upper floors, impacting at least three levels of the multi-storey structure.

Footage from the scene depicted thick clouds of smoke billowing from the upper stories as emergency personnel worked diligently to contain the flames and ensure the safety of residents.

The incident triggered an immediate reaction from the Surat Fire and Emergency Services, which dispatched multiple fire tenders to the site.

Firefighters executed a prompt and coordinated rescue operation, managing to evacuate over 50 residents, including 18 individuals who were trapped in an apartment next to the one where the fire originated. Numerous others who had sought refuge on the terrace were also rescued using ladders and various safety equipment.

The building is located near the residence of Gujarat Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi. Upon learning of the incident, Minister Sanghavi hurried to the scene to personally oversee the emergency response efforts.

Addressing the media, he confirmed that there were no fatalities and commended the fire brigade for their courage, likening their efforts to those of “Hanuman in a battle.”

He remarked that the fire had engulfed the eighth floor and ascended, but the swift response played a crucial role in averting a more significant disaster.

“The fire brigade fought like warriors. Their prompt actions ensured that all residents were evacuated safely,” Sanghavi stated. “Cooling operations are currently ongoing to prevent any further flare-ups.”

Surat Mayor Daxesh Mavani also confirmed that the fire had affected the top three floors of the tower but that it is now under control.

Authorities have initiated an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the fire, which remains undetermined at this time.

Nation Press