Major Fire In Mumbai's Dharavi After Gas Cylinders Explode Near Nature Park

Table of Contents

A significant fire erupted in Mumbai’s Dharavi area on the night of March 24, 2025, following the explosion of multiple gas cylinders near the Nature Park on the Sion-Dharavi Link Road. The incident occurred around 9:50 PM, causing widespread panic and substantial traffic congestion in the vicinity.

Incident Details

Eyewitnesses reported that a truck carrying several gas cylinders caught fire near the bus depot close to Nature Park. The flames quickly spread, leading to the explosion of multiple cylinders. Videos circulating on social media depict intense flames and thick black smoke billowing from the site.

Emergency Response

The Mumbai Fire Brigade responded promptly, dispatching eight fire engines and eight jumbo water tankers to the scene. Firefighters worked diligently to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures. As of now, no casualties have been reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Impact on the Community

Dharavi, known as one of Asia’s largest slums, is home to hundreds of thousands of residents living in close quarters. The explosion and subsequent fire caused significant alarm among the local population, with many evacuating their homes for safety. The incident also led to considerable traffic disruptions on the Sion-Dharavi Link Road, a major thoroughfare in the area.

Safety Measures and Precautions

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or potential hazards involving gas cylinders. Proper storage and handling of LPG cylinders are crucial to prevent such incidents. Residents are advised to ensure that cylinders are regularly checked for leaks and are stored in well-ventilated areas away from flammable materials.

Historical Context

This is not the first time Dharavi has experienced such an incident. In August 2021, a similar gas cylinder explosion injured 17 people, with five in critical condition. The blast occurred in the Shahu Nagar area of Dharavi, highlighting the recurring issue of gas cylinder safety in densely populated regions.

Authorities’ Response

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has assured residents that they are taking all necessary steps to investigate the cause of the fire and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. They have also emphasized the importance of community awareness and education regarding gas cylinder safety.

Community Resilience

Despite the challenges posed by such incidents, the residents of Dharavi have consistently demonstrated resilience and solidarity. Community leaders often play a pivotal role in coordinating relief efforts and providing support to affected families. Local NGOs and volunteer groups are also instrumental in offering assistance during such crises.

Conclusion

The recent fire in Dharavi serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with improper handling and storage of gas cylinders. It underscores the need for stringent safety protocols and heightened awareness to prevent similar incidents in the future. As investigations continue, it is hoped that lessons learned will lead to improved safety measures and a safer environment for all residents.