Pune: A military vehicle carrying flammable substances caught fire at the busy Khude Chowk near India Meteorological Department (IMD / Shimla Office) in Pune, creating a tense situation in the high-traffic area. The vehicle was en route to the National Defence Academy (NDA) when it suddenly burst into flames, reportedly due to the highly combustible chemicals inside.
According to preliminary reports, the military vehicle contained chemical substances often used in explosives, which are suspected to have caused the fire. As the vehicle moved through the crowded intersection, flames rapidly engulfed parts of it, posing a significant threat to nearby vehicles and pedestrians.
Thanks to the swift action of traffic police and vigilant citizens, a major disaster was prevented. As the fire spread, bystanders quickly removed hazardous materials from the vehicle, reducing the risk of a potential explosion. Firefighters were also alerted and rushed to the scene to douse the flames.
No casualties have been reported, and authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and the nature of the substances onboard.
"I was nearby when I saw the fire. A few people, along with traffic police, immediately rushed to help. They quickly removed some items from the vehicle, which probably prevented a much bigger disaster," said a local shopkeeper who witnessed the incident.
Authorities have sealed off the area and are conducting an in-depth inquiry into the incident. The military and local police are working together to understand how the fire started and whether additional safety protocols need to be implemented for transporting such materials.