Pune: A major fire broke out early Wednesday morning in the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar slum area of Chandan Nagar under Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits, reducing over 50 shanties to ashes. The incident occurred around 5 am and resulted in a series of loud explosions as more than 10 LPG cylinders burst in the blaze.
According to officials, the fire was intense but timely intervention helped in avoiding major casualties. Fire department chief Devendra Potphode led the emergency response, which included 15 fire tenders and 80 firemen who rushed to the scene.
Over 100 Gas Cylinders Retrieved From Blaze
In a massive rescue effort, over 100 gas cylinders were retrieved and removed from the area to prevent further explosions. Preliminary information indicates that no one has been injured, although a detailed report is awaited.
The cause of the fire is not yet confirmed, and authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation. The incident has left several families homeless, with rehabilitation efforts underway.
Another Major Fire Reported In City
In a separate incident, a fire broke out in the early hours of Wednesday at a historic two-storey wooden wada located near the Shrimati Laxmibai Dagdusheth Halwai Datt Mandir in central Pune. The blaze was reported to the fire control room at around 1:06 am.
Fire officials responded promptly, dispatching 10 fire engines, five officers, and 50 personnel to the location. Thanks to their swift and strategic efforts, the flames were contained before they could spread to adjoining structures.
The fire caused major damage to the wooden wada, including two shops on the ground floor. Firefighters entered through a nearby sweet shop and used ladders and water jets from various directions to control the blaze.
No Injuries Reported As Residents Evacuated In Time
Fire department PRO Nilesh Mahajan confirmed that there were no casualties. “Around 8 to 10 people living nearby managed to evacuate in time. No injuries have been reported,” he said.
The cause of the fire remains unknown. Officials from the police department and MSEDCL (Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co. Ltd.) were present at the site, and further investigation is currently underway.
