India, June 19 -- As flames engulfed Flat 702 of Atlantic Building in Bandra West on Wednesday night, 62-year-old Azim Barodawala remained trapped inside while his wife, Mona Barodawala, ran through the building pleading with neighbours to help rescue him.

According to residents and eyewitnesses, the fire is believed to have started in the living room air-conditioner. Realising the danger, Mona rushed out of the apartment, knocking on doors and calling for help as smoke rapidly filled the flat.

The blaze broke out around 9pm and soon engulfed the seventh-floor apartment. Despite the efforts of residents and firefighters, Azim remained trapped inside for nearly an hour. He was eventually rescued and rushed to Bhabha Hospital around 11pm,...