Daijiworld Media Network - Thane
Thane, Jun 10: A major fire at a scrap yard storing large quantities of used tyres sparked panic in the Dahisar Mori area along the Thane–Navi Mumbai border on Tuesday, sending dense black smoke billowing across the skyline and disrupting traffic on the busy Mumbra–Panvel highway.
The blaze broke out shortly before noon at an open scrap godown situated behind the Shil-Daighar police station and near a petrol pump, prompting fears of a potentially serious incident. While no casualties or injuries were reported, residents expressed concern over the fire's proximity to the fuel station and the heavy traffic flow in the area.
Witnesses said thick clouds of smoke could be seen from several kilometres away, creating alarm among nearby residents and motorists. The smoke also affected visibility on parts of the highway, forcing police authorities to divert traffic through alternate routes to prevent accidents and ease congestion.
Emergency response teams, including firefighters and disaster management personnel, arrived at the scene soon after receiving reports of the fire. However, the flames spread quickly due to the large quantity of tyres and other highly combustible materials stored at the facility.
As the situation intensified, fire engines and emergency units from multiple civic and disaster response agencies in neighbouring areas were mobilised to assist in containment efforts. The firefighting operation continued for nearly five hours before authorities succeeded in bringing the blaze under control.
According to Yasin Tadvi, in-charge of the Regional Disaster Management Cell, the presence of a massive stockpile of tyres and other flammable materials significantly complicated firefighting efforts and prolonged the operation.
Officials have confirmed that the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. A detailed investigation will be conducted to establish how the blaze started and whether any safety violations contributed to the incident.
Authorities continue to monitor the site to prevent any possibility of reignition while assessing the extent of damage caused by the fire.