'Make in India' stage catches fire in Mumbai, CM orders probe

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devemdra Fadnavis, who was present at a function at the 'Make in India' event in Mumbai on Sunday evening, ordered an investigation into the devastating fire that engulfed a stage at the venue.

While no casualties were reported, preliminary inquiry revealed that short circuit from an electrical wire – under the main stage - led to the devastation, which took place during the cultural programme.

At the time of the incident a large number of delegates, investors, politicians and actors were present. All of them were immediately evacuated by the fire department officials and the local police.

Sources said, "VVIPs like Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his wife Amruta Fadnavis, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, actor Amitabh Bachchan, Amir Khan, Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao were present in the event. All of them were immediately taken out of the venue."

Confirming that the situation was not alarming, Devendra Fadnavis said, "It is very unfortunate incident. No casualties have been reported and no one is injured. The fire is under control."

He added, "A fire safety audit was conducted prior to programme and all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were followed. A comprehensive inquiry into the incidence of fire will be conducted to ascertain reasons."

Additional fire tenders were pressed into action to douse the blaze. "A total of 14 fire engines and 10 water tankers are at the spot. The situation is under control but the stage was completely gutted," sources said.

Those who were present were seen running out in panic. Some of them were also heard screaming for help.

Speaking to CNN-IBN, BJP leader and actress Hema Malini, who was also present on occasion, said, "I am fine and safe. The fire broke out when artists were performing a folk dance. I don’t know what caused the fire."

Renowned lyricist Prasoon Joshi and actor Vivek Oberoi too confirmed that they were safe.

The video footage revealed that the fire broke out under the stage on which artists were performing folk dance. Volunteers were seen alerting artists to run for their safety.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated the 'Make in India' week in Mumbai on Saturday.

The event will provide a huge opportunity for the nation to exhibit its "manufacturing prowess" and attract billions of dollars in investments from domestic and global majors.

Over 2,500 international and 8,000 domestic companies will be participating in the week-long multi-sectoral industrial event, which will be attended by foreign government delegations from 68 countries and business teams from 72 nations.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called up Fadnavis and inquired about the fire.