SYDNEY: A major fire destroyed a seven-storey building in central Sydney on Thursday, the fire brigade said.
The fire broke out at 4 pm at the building on Randle Street near the Australian city's central railway station in the Surrey Hills district.
More than 120 firefighters and 30 vehicles were deployed to fight the flames, the fire brigade said, adding that the flames have now been brought under control.
The building was empty but homeless people were living there, according to media reports. Some 50 people were evacuated, broadcaster 9News reported.
No one was injured. It remains unclear what caused the blaze, the fire brigade said, describing the fire as an "inferno."
Parts of the building collapsed. Videos published by local media showed the roof falling in and part of the façade falling down.
The fire appeared to have started on the third floor, fire chief Adam Dewberry was quoted as saying by public broadcaster ABC earlier.
The building in Sydney's Surry Hills district is said to be a former factory that was to be converted into a hotel. Adjacent homes were also evacuated for fear of spreading flames, Dewberry said. At least one parked car also caught fire.
Thick clouds of black smoke rising into the sky could be seen almost all over the city in the afternoon, according to reports. Numerous roads in the area were closed. - dpa
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