Five Children Injured in Pune After Firecracker Ignites Sewage Gases

In a heartbreaking Diwali accident in Pune’s Narhe area, five children suffered injuries after an unexpected flare-up triggered by firecrackers igniting gases in a sewage chamber. This unfortunate event took place on Sunday around 5:30 pm at Manajinagar within the Gaurang Residency residential complex. The children, aged between eight and ten, were setting off firecrackers on top of a drainage chamber when the explosion occurred. Although all the injured children are now reported to be stable, two of them remain under close observation due to serious injuries.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Sambhaji Kadam explained that the group of children had gathered near the drainage line to celebrate Diwali with firecrackers. Unaware of the potential hazard, the children placed firecrackers on the lid of the drainage chamber. Igniting these firecrackers caused a release of gases trapped within the sewage system, leading to an unexpected and intense flare-up. The explosion was strong enough to cause burns and shock among the children present nearby, catching them off guard and resulting in injuries that required immediate medical attention.

Local authorities, concerned over the incident, are advising communities to exercise extra caution around public utilities during festival times, especially when dealing with firecrackers. Drainage lines and sewage chambers can accumulate gases that are highly flammable and can become dangerous if ignited. DCP Kadam emphasized the need for safety, stating, “We appeal to all residents, especially parents, to make sure children understand the risks involved in using firecrackers near unknown structures or public utilities. This incident is a grave reminder that seemingly harmless festivities can quickly become hazardous without caution.”

Following the incident, emergency responders were quick to reach the scene, and all five children were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Medical teams attended to the children, providing urgent care for burns and other injuries. Although no official medico-legal case has been registered with the police, officers are actively monitoring the children’s recovery to ensure they receive the necessary support.

With Diwali festivities in full swing, officials and community leaders are stressing the importance of safety and public awareness. The tragic incident in Narhe has underscored the risks associated with setting off firecrackers in areas where gases may be trapped, such as sewage and drainage chambers. Public advisories have been issued, urging families and communities to only set off firecrackers in open, secure areas, away from structures where gas buildup is likely.

As the injured children continue their recovery, the authorities are calling for community cooperation to prevent similar incidents. This incident highlights the critical need for parents and guardians to oversee children’s use of fireworks and educate them on potential dangers associated with areas that may contain flammable gases.