Fire Breaks Out at Zepto Warehouse in Mumbai; Sparks Concerns Over Safety After Hygiene Row - VIDEO

Mumbai: A massive fire broke out in Zepto warehouse located in Mumbai's Dahisar. The incident took place at 3 pm, which ensued chaos and panic in the area. The fire department was immediately informed, which dispatched 6 fire brigade vehicles to the spot. The fire engulfed all the items kept inside the Zepto warehouse.

In the initial investigation, the officials have learned that the fire started due to a short circuit in the AC. No injuries were reported. After doubts over hygiene now questions over safety of employees raised.

As per the officials, the fire has been doused. However, a further investigation is underway.

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licence of Kiranakart Technologies Pvt Ltd, the company behind Zepto, after finding serious hygiene violations at one of its facilities in Dharavi, Mumbai.

During an inspection, the FDA found fungus growing on some food items. Many other products were stored in or near dirty, stagnant water, which raised concerns about cleanliness. The cold storage at the facility was not kept at the proper temperature, and expired food was not kept separate from the fresh stock — all of which go against food safety rules.

"These findings constitute a failure to comply with the conditions of the license," the FDA said in its statement.

The suspension will stay in effect until the FDA is satisfied that the company has fixed all the issues and is following proper safety and hygiene standards.

"It was a routine action, we received complaint that hygiene and FDA norms were not followed there. FDA is a regulatory authority, it's a routine that we visit various outlets. At times it becomes difficult to visit each and every outlet. As per act, Zepto will be given notice after which they need to fulfil those parameters and once they do it we'll revisit the spot and decide to revoke the suspension or not," Rajesh Narvekar, FDA Commissioner, said on the raid.