Khadakwasla Dam Rescue: People Trapped While Washing Mattresses and Clothes
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Pune, 21st September 2025: A potential tragedy was averted at Khadakwasla Dam on Sunday after several people were trapped in strong water currents while washing mattresses and clothes during the Navratri festival. Villagers and residents from Pune had gathered in large numbers at the dam when a sudden surge in water flow triggered panic.
Local residents, police, and the Pune Fire Brigade acted swiftly to rescue those stranded. Before the fire brigade’s arrival, police and villagers managed to save some individuals. Fire personnel later used ropes to pull out two women and three men to safety.
The rescue operation was led by In-charge Deputy Fire Officer Pramod Maral, along with Driver Anil Khavale and firemen Baburao Shitkal, Jayesh Labde, and Sanjay Chaure. Their coordinated efforts, supported by locals, ensured that all trapped people were brought out safely. One man was briefly swept away by the current but was saved by villagers.
Speaking after the incident, Deputy Fire Officer Maral said:
“During Navratri, many people from nearby villages and Pune come here to wash mattresses and clothes. Warnings had been issued about the rising water levels, but people ignored them. When the flow increased, several got stuck in the current. With the help of locals and police, we managed to rescue everyone, including two women and three men, using ropes. Thankfully, no lives were lost.”
Authorities have once again urged citizens to strictly follow safety advisories near dams and rivers, particularly during festivals, to prevent such life-threatening situations.
