'Make in India' fire probe report in 2 days: Official

Mumbai, Feb 16: Investigation to ascertain the cause behind Sunday's massive blaze at a 'Make in India' event here was on right track and the finding will be known in the next two days, Chief Fire officer P S Rahangdale said today.

"Our investigation is heading in proper direction but it will take two more days to ascertain the exact cause of fire," he told here. A massive fire broke out on Sunday at Girgaum Chowpatty seafront on stage during a cultural programme organised as part of the ongoing 'Make in India' event in the metropolis.

Meanwhile, questions are being asked if warnings issued prior to the high-profile programme by Fire Department were ignored by event organisers. Asked about his, Rahangdale said his Department, too, is investigating if necessary precautions were followed. A Fire Brigade official, seeking anonymity, said "our Department had issued warnings against fireworks near the stage.

But it seems our warnings were overlooked and pyrotechnics and smoke machines were used on the stage which could have possibly caused the fire. The probe team is also investigating sabotage angle, Department officials said. Meanwhile, RTI activist Anil Galgali has alleged that standard operating procedures were compromised during the event.

"This is a clear cut case of unprofessionalism and lackadaisical approach of organisers as well as Fire Brigade. I am astonished police have not yet booked anyone."

Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt Ltd, the event organiser, has denied any lapse and said all safety precautions were followed.

PTI