Pune: Illegal Scrap Godowns Under Scrutiny After Chikhali Fire, PCMC Criticized for Inaction
Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Chikhali, 9th December 2024: In Pimpri Chinchwad’s Kudalwadi area, another incident of a scrap godown catching fire has come to light. The illegal scrap godowns, which fail to comply with the fire brigade’s safety mandates to prevent such incidents, have been a recurring issue. Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s (PCMC) Additional Commissioner, Pradeep Jambhale Patil, visited the scene but refrained from addressing the broader problem, stating, “Extinguishing the fire is the priority.” This remark has drawn criticism toward PCMC for ignoring the larger issue.
Around 10 AM today, a scrap shop in Kudalwadi, Chikhali, caught fire. According to a spokesperson from PCMC’s Fire Brigade, about 20 vehicles were dispatched to extinguish the blaze. The fire was massive, causing significant damage to items stored in the scrap godown. The dense smoke was visible from almost 10 kilometres away. Fortunately, no lives were lost, and no injuries were reported. While the cause of the fire could not be immediately determined, the PCMC Fire Brigade stated that an investigation is underway.
Residents of the area, including the Chikhali Moshi Pimpri Chinchwad Housing Society Federation and its chairman, Sanjivan Sangale, have repeatedly raised concerns about the issue of scrap godown fires. They have engaged in correspondence with the PCMC administration, but the problem remains unresolved. The housing society’s federation has demanded immediate action from the PCMC administration and has warned of protests if these recurring fire incidents are not addressed.
Additional Municipal Commissioner Pradeep Jambhale Patil visited the fire site and addressed questions about the illegal scrap godowns in the area. He stated, “Our priority right now is extinguishing the fire. Once that is done, we will address the issue of illegal godowns and take action against those responsible for this incident.”
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Housing Federation Chairman Sanjivan Sangale spoke to Punekar News and expressed his frustration, saying, “Many of the godowns in the Chikhali Kudalwadi area operate illegally. Yet, the administration provides them with electricity and water, effectively encouraging them. We plan to meet with the Pimpri Chinchwad Commissioner of Police and the PCMC Commissioner to demand strict action against these establishments. These recurring fire incidents are causing immense suffering for residents. We urge the administration to act impartially and not yield to any external pressure.”
