In a devastating incident on Sunday morning, a major fire engulfed a godown of a pandal and decoration firm on Gangadham Road near Aai Mata Temple in Pune. The fire rapidly spread to adjacent storage facilities, resulting in the destruction of multiple storage units. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, as confirmed by officials at the scene.
The fire originated in the godown belonging to Ashok Mandap Decorators, which covered an area of approximately 2 acres. The godown cluster housed around 10 to 12 adjacent storage structures owned by various companies dealing with cold drinks, biscuits, fabrication materials, automobile spare parts, and different hardware items. As the fire expanded, thick smoke filled the air, emanating from the burning wood, garments, and plastics.
Upon receiving information about the fire at around 8:55 am, the Pune Fire Brigade control room swiftly dispatched 22 fire tenders from the Pune Fire Brigade and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) to the scene.
One official described the magnitude of the fire, stating, “It’s bigger than the timber market fire of last month.” This reference was made to the massive fire that ravaged the timber market in Bhavani Peth on May 25. The previous incident resulted in the destruction of 10 shops, godowns storing wooden items, and five small houses. Despite the extensive damage, no casualties were reported. However, it took a team of nearly 35 fire tenders and 150 firefighters approximately six hours to bring the blaze under control.
The authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire at the godown cluster on Gangadham Road. Efforts are also underway to assess the extent of the damage caused by the fire and provide assistance to the affected businesses. Local residents and business owners are urged to exercise caution and cooperate with the authorities during this challenging time.
It is crucial for everyone to prioritize fire safety measures and adhere to proper guidelines to prevent such incidents. Regular inspections, appropriate storage practices, and adherence to fire safety protocols can help mitigate the risk of fire accidents and safeguard lives and property.
