Pune: LPG Cylinder Blast In Kharadi Claims One Life, Leaves Two Family Members Injured

Pune: A 35-year-old man lost his life while two of his family members suffered serious burn injuries after an LPG leak allegedly triggered a powerful explosion and fire at a residential building in Khandve Nagar, Kharadi, on Friday morning.

The incident took place around 9.15 am at a two-storey residential building. Following reports of a suspected cylinder explosion and fire, teams from the Kharadi, Dhanori and Yerawada fire stations rushed to the spot and launched a rescue operation.

The injured were shifted to Sassoon General Hospital for treatment. Pandurang Vishnu Gitte (35) succumbed to his injuries, while Vishnu Munjaji Gitte (82) and Vrundavini Vishnu Gitte (60) sustained severe burn injuries and remain under medical care.

According to fire brigade officials, the explosion is suspected to have occurred while a new LPG cylinder was being connected after the previous one had run empty. A gas leak reportedly led to the accumulation of LPG inside the house, resulting in a powerful blast followed by a fire.

By the time firefighters arrived, flames had engulfed a portion of the first floor. Fire personnel brought the blaze under control, rescued the occupants and prevented it from spreading to other parts of the building.

The fire caused extensive damage to household property. Furniture, a television set, electrical wiring, bathroom fittings and a geyser were destroyed or severely damaged. A refrigerator and other items in the kitchen also suffered partial damage.

Firefighters later carried out cooling operations to prevent the blaze from reigniting. Thick smoke spread throughout the flat, blackening the walls and causing further damage. Officials said the residential structure was also affected, although the exact extent of the loss is yet to be assessed.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident, and further details are awaited.