Ageing underground power cable catches fire on Mutton Street in Nagpada

A fire broke out in an ageing underground power cable on Mutton Street in the Don Taki locality of Nagpada, Bhendi Bazaar, in south Mumbai on Sunday morning, triggering panic and thick smoke in the congested area. The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 AM, drawing a rapid response from firefighters, police, and Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) officials. No injuries were reported, and the fire was successfully contained to the site without spreading to any nearby structures.

The fire, which is suspected to have been triggered by a short circuit, sent thick plumes of smoke rising from beneath the road surface. This alarmed local residents, shopkeepers, and pedestrians in the densely populated neighborhood.

Fire tenders rushed to the spot on Mutton Street. Local police cordoned off the area to manage the situation and control the crowds of onlookers that gathered as flames and smoke continued to rise from the underground cable network. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within a short period of time.

As a precautionary measure, BEST officials shut down the power supply from the nearest substation. Despite this temporary measure, authorities confirmed that there was no major disruption to the electricity supply in the surrounding area.

A senior official from the BEST power supply division explained that the fire originated in an ageing low-voltage cable that was already slated for replacement. The official noted that there was no ongoing work at the site because the incident occurred on a Sunday. The cable developed a short circuit and burst, but the resulting fire was controlled promptly.

BEST officials have stated that the ageing cable will be replaced soon. Furthermore, authorities announced that a detailed technical assessment will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the short circuit and prevent such incidents from recurring.