Pune, 10 July 2025: A wave of grief swept through the Pune Police Department following the sudden demise of Police Naik Dhanaji Bharat Vanave (age 42), a traffic branch officer, who tragically passed away on duty due to a heart attack on Wednesday evening. The incident occurred around 6:45 PM at the busy Katraj Mandai Chowk while he was performing his routine traffic regulation duties.
According to eyewitnesses, Vanave suddenly felt dizzy and collapsed at the spot. Fellow officers present at the scene immediately rushed him to the nearby Saisneh Hospital in Katraj. However, doctors declared him dead before they could begin treatment. Preliminary medical reports confirmed that he had suffered a massive heart attack.
Vanave had been serving in the Pune Traffic Police for several years and was known for his sincerity, discipline, and calm demeanour even in high-pressure situations. He was a respected figure among his peers and had a reputation for handling the challenging responsibilities of traffic control with dedication and positivity.
A disciplined and approachable officer, Vanave had built a rapport not only within the police department but also among the citizens he interacted with daily. His sudden demise has left his colleagues in shock, especially those from the traffic division who worked alongside him for years.
He is survived by his parents, wife, a son, and a daughter. His untimely death has devastated his family. Senior officials from the Pune Police have assured that the department will extend all necessary support to his bereaved family.
Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, along with senior traffic officers and fellow policemen, paid tribute to Vanave and expressed their deep sorrow. Many remembered him as a truly committed and brave officer who sacrificed his life in the line of duty.