A significant fire broke out early on a Monday morning at a residential and commercial building on Freshwater Road in Dagenham, leading to the evacuation of over 100 residents.

The London Fire Brigade deployed 45 engines and around 225 firefighters to tackle the blaze, which resulted in two individuals being hospitalized.

An investigation has been launched to determine the role of non-compliant cladding in the fire's spread, with the London Fire Brigade emphasizing the complexity of the inquiry.

The building was reported to have 'non-compliant' cladding, raising concerns among campaigners about ongoing safety oversights, especially seven years after the Grenfell tragedy.

Grenfell United, representing victims of the Grenfell Tower fire, criticized the slow pace of remediation efforts and the inadequacy of evacuation plans for disabled residents.

Dame Judith Hackitt, who led a review on building safety after Grenfell, expressed concern over the uncertainty and fear residents face regarding their safety.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, but the building had known fire risk factors, including a combustible exterior and ongoing renovations involving flammable materials.

The Fire Brigades Union and community organizations are demanding immediate action to improve building safety and remove hazardous cladding to protect residents.

Dagenham and Rainham MP Margaret Mullane acknowledged the swift action of emergency services, which minimized injuries, and plans to visit affected residents.

A rest centre has been established at Beacontree Health and Leisure Centre to assist those evacuated from the building.

The incident has been described as a reflection of a national scandal regarding flammable cladding and building deregulation, with the block having received a fire enforcement notice in 2023.

Residents described the chaotic evacuation, with some forced to leave without clothing or belongings, while others reported overwhelming smoke filling their apartments.