Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 6: Panic gripped residents after a fire broke out inside a lift at a residential building in Goregaon West when hydrogen-filled balloons being transported inside the elevator suddenly ignited. Two persons sustained minor burn injuries in the incident, which was narrowly averted from turning into a major tragedy.

The incident occurred at Anmol Towers, a residential complex located opposite a petrol pump. According to available information, a woman had entered the lift carrying a trolley, when a man carrying a plastic bag filled with balloons and another youth with a backpack stepped in moments later. The lift doors then closed.

CCTV footage from inside the lift shows that as the woman briefly turned towards the mirror, the balloons suddenly burst, triggering flames inside the confined space. Within seconds, the lift was filled with fire and smoke.

Reacting quickly, all three occupants rushed out as the doors opened. Two of them suffered minor burn injuries, while a major mishap was averted due to the swift escape.

Officials said the balloons were filled with hydrogen gas, which is highly flammable and known to ignite even with a small spark or static discharge, especially in enclosed areas such as elevators. Authorities have repeatedly warned against transporting gas-filled balloons in lifts and other confined spaces.

The CCTV video of the incident has since surfaced, highlighting how rapidly the situation escalated and raising serious concerns over safety lapses in residential buildings.

Following the incident, citizens and housing society managements have been urged to remain vigilant and strictly prevent the movement of hazardous materials, including gas-filled balloons, within residential complexes.

Though the fire was short-lived and injuries were not serious, the incident has served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by flammable materials in enclosed spaces — and how close the city came to a major accident.