In a concerning incident on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, a segment of Patwardhan Wada in Pune experienced a collapse, raising alarms for the safety of its occupants. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but two individuals sustained minor injuries during the incident.
The victims, an elderly couple residing on the second floor of the wada, found themselves stuck beneath a cupboard as it tumbled during the collapse. A quick response from a passerby, who alerted the firefighters, played a crucial role in preventing a more severe outcome.
Firefighters reached the scene within 10 minutes and successfully rescued the trapped couple. Despite being stuck for approximately ten to twelve minutes, both individuals were extricated safely. Following the rescue operation, they were promptly admitted to a nearby hospital to receive treatment for the minor injuries incurred during the incident.
Pankaj Jagtap, Fire Officer, emphasized the age of the wada as a contributing factor to the collapse. He stated, “The wada was very old, and that is why it collapsed.” He further added that Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials would visit the site to conduct an investigation and implement necessary measures for the wada’s renovation.
