Pune, May 12: A massive fire broke out on Tuesday afternoon at a tent material warehouse located opposite the Upper Bus Depot in Bibwewadi, destroying the entire facility along with two trucks and seven two-wheelers parked nearby. While no casualties were reported, one worker sustained injuries in the incident.
According to officials, the fire erupted around 1:15 pm at the warehouse of Kale and Sons, which stored large quantities of carpets, fabric, sound systems, and decorative materials across an area of nearly 8,000 square feet. A gas cylinder explosion during the blaze intensified the fire rapidly, sending thick plumes of smoke across the locality and triggering panic among residents.
The flames soon spread to vehicles parked near the warehouse, engulfing two trucks and seven motorcycles. Following the alert, seven fire engines from Kasba, Gangadham Chowk, Kondhwa, and Erandwane fire stations, along with three water tankers and 11 civic tankers, were rushed to the spot. Firefighters faced difficulties due to narrow roads, dense residential surroundings, and nearby commercial establishments, raising fears of the fire spreading further.
Fire personnel carried out operations from all sides and managed to remove several gas cylinders from the premises. After nearly two hours of firefighting efforts, the blaze was brought under control.
The operation was conducted under the guidance of Chief Fire Officer Devendra Potphode, with officers Vijay Bhilare, Sameer Sheikh, Sunil Naiknavare, Kailas Shinde, and nearly 50 fire brigade personnel participating in the rescue efforts.
Local corporators, former civic representatives, police personnel, MSEDCL staff, and residents also assisted during the emergency response. Meanwhile, locals expressed anger over roadside encroachments and demanded clearance of blocked roads to improve emergency access.
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation. Chief Fire Officer Devendra Potphode said additional fire vehicles were immediately deployed considering the intensity of the blaze and the densely populated locality. He added that firefighters successfully prevented the flames from spreading further, averting a major tragedy.