Many shops inside this market store inflammable material like perfumes and cosmetics. Several stalls in and around Crawford Market also stock firecrackers for the festive season. One report stated that several shops had illegal lofts.

The area is always crowded, but its lanes are especially thick with shoppers during Diwali time, because it is a hub for gift shopping. Shops do brisk business during this time.

Poll

Who will win the Punjab Elections?

BJP 32.76%

AAP 43.10%

INC 24.14%

Submit

View All In Poll

While a complete makeover may be impossible this time, shops must be told to have a modicum of firefighting equipment inside. The narrow lanes choked with vehicles should be kept free, at least to allow movement of firefighting vehicles. The shopkeepers should be educated about fire hazards.

Exits to the market must be clearly marked, especially for shoppers, who may be unaware of the layout of this mammoth structure. Like so many markets in Mumbai, this one too is a tinderbox because of various factors.

Let this fire ring some warning bells for authorities and shopkeepers alike, bringing about some change both in the mindset and methods. Let us, as is our wont, not wait for a tragedy of mammoth proportions to wake up to the real dangers and hazards, posed by issues — such as encroached roads and pavements, illegal extensions in structures, and other safety norms being flouted.