According to a local witness, the blaze erupted suddenly on the 25th floor of the building and spread quickly, with flames and smoke swirling into the sky.

A VOV reporter said columns of thick black smoke continued to rise from the building while people were evacuated, causing heavy traffic congestion.

Local authorities said seven fire engines were mobilized to the scene to tackle the blaze. However, fire fighters have said the height of the building is creating difficulties for access as they attempt to extinguish the fire.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.