Dormant Infrastructure Raises Alarms Amidst Rising Fire Incidents in Pune
The Malti Kachi Maternity Hospital, operated by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) at Gadikhana, finds itself at the center of controversy as its firefighting system remains inactive, shrouded in neglect and bureaucracy. The non-functional system, attributed to indifference from the PMC electricity department, poses a grave risk to the safety of patients and staff, drawing ire from citizens demanding immediate intervention.
In recent weeks, Pune has witnessed a surge in fire incidents, compounded by the sweltering summer temperatures. The looming threat of a fire outbreak in the maternity hospital has spurred residents to demand swift action from the PMC electricity department to re-energize the firefighting infrastructure.
Gadikhana serves as a hub for various municipal facilities, including the Municipal Aushadh Wardhini Kendra, City TB Center, Drug Store, and the Malti Kachi Maternity Hospital. The bustling complex, frequented by patients and visitors, amplifies concerns about the potential catastrophic consequences of an unaddressed fire hazard.
Despite significant investments in installing firefighting infrastructure, such as essential water supply pumps, progress has ground to a halt for over six months due to bureaucratic disputes between the building and electricity departments. Both entities have engaged in a blame game, leaving citizens feeling frustrated and vulnerable.
Rupesh Kesekar, an outspoken citizen, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The negligence surrounding the operational status of the firefighting system in Malti Kachi Maternity Hospital is alarming. With temperatures expected to soar, the risk of a fire incident cannot be ignored. Immediate action is imperative to protect citizens’ lives.”
In response to mounting pressure, Srinivas Kandul, Chief of the PMC Electrical Department, acknowledged the delay and identified pending construction of the pump foundation as a primary hurdle. However, he pledged to expedite efforts, promising to restore electricity within the next four days.
As tensions escalate and concerns mount, citizens persist in demanding accountability and swift resolution from PMC officials to rectify the laxity surrounding the hospital’s firefighting infrastructure before disaster strikes.
