Panic gripped the Vastrapur area on Wednesday after a major fire broke out at the Shivalik High Street building, located near ITC Narmada. Thick smoke quickly engulfed the premises, leaving several occupants stranded on the upper floors.
According to initial reports, people were trapped on the 8th and 9th floors as the blaze spread through parts of the building. Many rushed to the terrace in an attempt to escape the smoke and flames.
Upon receiving the alert, the Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services rushed to the scene. Around 8 to 10 fire tenders from Navrangpura, Bodakdev, Thaltej, Prahladnagar and Maninagar fire stations were deployed. More than 25 firefighters carried out an intensive rescue operation.
Using snorkel ladders and other rescue equipment, the fire personnel successfully evacuated over 100 people from the building. The swift action of the fire brigade helped prevent casualties.
However, due to heavy smoke inside the building, four to five individuals reportedly fell ill and were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Further details regarding the cause of the fire and the extent of damage are awaited.