16 January,2026 09:34 PM IST | Navi Mumbai | Amarjeet Singh
Four to five domestic gas cylinders exploded in quick succession, triggering a massive blaze.
A fire broke out on Friday morning in Sector 20 at Nerul when the counting of votes for the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) Elections was underway nearby. The incident occurred in a slum cluster at Nerul village, barely a kilometre away from the counting centre.
According to initial reports, four to five domestic gas cylinders exploded in quick succession, triggering a massive blaze that gutted at least six to seven huts within minutes. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the area, causing panic among residents and commuters in the vicinity.
Fortunately, no loss of life or injuries have been reported so far, officials said. Residents managed to escape in time as the fire spread rapidly through the densely packed huts.
On receiving information, teams from the fire brigade and local police rushed to the spot and launched firefighting operations. After sustained efforts, the blaze was brought under control, preventing it from spreading further to adjoining areas.
The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, and a detailed investigation has been initiated. Authorities are also assessing the extent of damage caused to the affected families.
