Pune Apartment Fire Claims One Life Injures Elderly Man Investigation Underway

A devastating fire broke out in a residential building on NIBM Road in Pune’s Kondhwa area on Sunday afternoon, resulting in the tragic death of a woman and critical injuries to an elderly man.

Fire Erupts in High-Rise Apartment

The incident occurred at around 3:30 PM in an apartment on the fourth floor of an eight-story building at Sunshree Suvarnayug Society. According to fire department officials, the fire started in the bedroom when a curtain ignited from a lit diya, rapidly engulfing the flat.

Victims Identified and Rescue Efforts

The deceased, Vrunda Sangwar, 65, sustained severe burn injuries and was rushed to Sassoon Hospital, where she later passed away. Her in-law, 75-year-old Manoj Borkar, was critically injured and is receiving treatment at Command Hospital. Their nephew, who was also inside the apartment, survived as he was in the bathroom at the time. Despite his efforts to save them, the intensity of the flames made rescue impossible.

Firefighting Operation and Challenges

Sameer Sheikh, a firefighter with the Pune Fire Brigade, stated that a distress call was received around 3:30 PM. Fire tenders from multiple fire stations, along with a 20-member team, rushed to the scene. Locals had attempted to control the fire, but the building’s water supply system was non-functional. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus, managed to rescue the victims and contain the blaze by 4:05 PM, preventing further damage to nearby apartments.

Possible Causes and Ongoing Investigation

Preliminary reports indicate that the fire started when a lit diya ignited a curtain, leading to an air conditioner compressor explosion that fueled the flames. Authorities suspect that the presence of flammable materials, including sandalwood, may have accelerated the fire’s spread. Investigations are ongoing to determine further details.

Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response

A resident of the society recalled witnessing thick smoke filling the apartment and hallways, initially fearing that the entire floor was ablaze. Officials from the police and fire department responded promptly, ensuring that affected residents were assisted and the fire was contained.

Authorities urge residents to exercise caution while handling open flames and ensure fire safety measures are in place to prevent such tragedies in the future. The incident has highlighted the importance of functional fire safety systems in residential complexes.