Mumbai: A fire triggered by a suspected short circuit in an “ageing” underground power cable sparked panic in the congested Bhendi Bazaar in south Mumbai on Sunday morning. No injuries were reported. The fire was contained to the site and didn’t spread to nearby structures.It broke out around 11.30am on Mutton Street in the densely populated Don Taki locality of Nagpada, sending thick plumes of smoke from beneath the road and alarming residents, shopkeepers and pedestrians.Fire tenders rushed to the spot. The area was cordoned off as flames and smoke continued to rise from the underground cable network. Crowds gathered even as police worked to control the situation and prevent any untoward incident.Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within a short time. As a precautionary step, BEST officials shut down power supply from the nearest substation.A senior BEST official from the power supply division said the fire originated in an ageing low voltage cable that was due for replacement. “There was no ongoing work as it was Sunday. The cable developed a short circuit and burst. The fire was controlled promptly. There was no disruption in electricity supply to the area, and we will replace the cable soon.”Authorities said a detailed technical assessment would be conducted to ascertain the exact reason and prevent recurrences.
