A 16-year-old boy drowned in a pond during his morning walk in Pune. The tragedy unfolded early Friday morning and led to a tense three-hour rescue operation by emergency services. The case has reignited concerns about the safety of open water bodies in urban areas and the urgent need for increased public awareness and preventive measures.
The victim, identified as Rohit Patil, was a resident of the Kothrud area and a student of Class 11. According to eyewitnesses, Rohit was walking with friends near a popular pond in the neighborhood when he slipped on the muddy bank and fell into the water. Despite immediate attempts by his friends to help, Rohit quickly disappeared beneath the surface.
Panic ensued as bystanders called for help. Local residents rushed to the scene, but their efforts to rescue the boy were unsuccessful. The fire brigade and Pune Municipal Corporation’s disaster management team were alerted and arrived within minutes to begin the search and rescue operation.
The rescue team, equipped with boats and diving gear, launched a coordinated search that lasted nearly three hours. The pond’s murky water and uneven depth made the operation challenging. After an exhaustive effort, divers located Rohit’s body and brought him to the surface.
Medical personnel at the scene confirmed that the boy had drowned. His body was later sent to the city hospital for a post-mortem examination. The news of the tragedy has plunged Rohit’s family, friends, and schoolmates into deep grief.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among Pune residents, especially parents and educators. Many have pointed out the lack of safety barriers, warning signs, and supervision around popular water bodies frequented by children and teenagers.
Local resident and parent, Sunita Joshi, remarked, “This is not the first time such an incident has happened. We need proper fencing and warning boards around ponds and lakes. Our children’s safety must come first.”
A spokesperson for the disaster management team stated, “We urge parents and schools to educate children about the dangers of playing or walking near open water bodies. Preventive education is as important as physical safety measures.”
Schools and local NGOs are now planning awareness campaigns to educate students and families about water safety, especially as the monsoon season approaches.
