In a distressing incident, a fire erupted at a scrap shop in Akurdi Gaothan around 7 pm, leading to injuries for four individuals. The injured victims, identified as Popat Adsul, Santosh Chanal, Shrikant Kamble, and Naresh Chavan, were expeditiously transported to Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial (YCM) Hospital in Pimpri for urgent medical attention. Preliminary investigations point towards a gas leak during cooking activities as the cause of the fire.
Immediate Medical Attention and Concerns Over Burn Units
The injured individuals, residing in a small living space within the scrap shop, were cooking when the substantial gas leak ignited into flames. The absence of dedicated burn units in key PCMC hospitals, including YCM, has raised concerns. Burn victims often need to be directed to Pune’s Sassoon Hospital, highlighting the urgency for local burn wards for improved emergency response. PCMC is hastening efforts in this direction, especially following recent incidents like the Talawade fire tragedy.
Swift Firefighting Response and Panic in the Area
Upon receiving the report of the fire, four vehicles from Pradhikaran, Thergaon, and Pimpri rushed to the scene. The fire, originating at Akshay Scrap Center, consumed various materials, including cardboard, plastic scraps, perfume body sprays, empty cans, scrap batteries, and household plastic items. The loud sound and intense flames caused panic in the area.
Firefighters Intervene, Operation Involves 32 Personnel
Firefighters swiftly intervened, utilizing water to extinguish the flames and ensure the safety of the injured. A total of 32 fire personnel were involved in the operation, underscoring the urgency of providing medical assistance to the victims. The incident highlights the critical need for well-equipped local emergency response units to address fire accidents promptly.
