At least three persons have been killed in the fire mishap that took place at Maharashtra Secretariat (Mantralaya) on Thursday. Although sources said no casualties were expected, the hospital sources revealed last night that two persons were dead and the condition of one person was critical. And the person whose condition was critical died this morning. Several fire tenders, which were pressed into action, fought for nearly 12 hours to completely douse the wild flames. Many people, who were trapped inside, were rescued and admitted to hospital. Unfortunately, three persons died.

It may be noted that fire broke out in fourth floor of secretariat in the afternoon on Thursday. Initially, the fire was expected to be brought under the control but to no avail. Fire soon spread to sixth floor trapping hundreds of employees. Even helicopters were pressed into action to rescue the trapped people.

(AW Phani)