Pune: Fire Near Petrol Pump at Handewadi Chowk Sparks Panic; Quick Response Prevents Major Mishap

Handewadi, 16th June 2026: A major fire broke out at four furniture and electrical goods shops near Handewadi Chowk on the Hadapsar-Katraj Bypass Road, causing extensive damage to furniture and other materials. Prompt action by the Pune Fire Brigade prevented the blaze from spreading to nearby establishments, averting a potentially catastrophic incident.

The fire erupted at commercial units located adjacent to Shivendra Hotel, including Furniture House, Sajavat Furniture, Veerbhadra Furniture and Techno Fast Electric. Each shop covered an area of approximately 2,000 square feet.

Upon receiving information about the incident, a fire engine from the Kalepadal Fire Station was the first to reach the spot and immediately began firefighting operations. Additional support was mobilised from multiple fire stations, including fire engines and water tankers from Kondhwa Budruk, Kondhwa Khurd, Gangadham, Erandwane and Hadapsar, along with a water tanker from the Central Fire Station. Local and Pune Municipal Corporation water tankers also joined the operation.

After several hours of continuous efforts, firefighters succeeded in bringing the blaze under control and completely extinguishing it.
During the operation, firefighters safely removed an LPG cylinder from the premises, eliminating the risk of an explosion.

The presence of a petrol pump and Shivendra Hotel in close proximity to the affected shops had heightened concerns about the possibility of a major disaster. However, the fire brigade’s swift and coordinated response ensured that the flames did not spread beyond the affected structures.

The rescue and firefighting operation was carried out under the guidance of Chief Fire Officer Devendra Potphode. The team included Station Officer Sameer Shaikh, Anil Gaikwad, Sunil Naiknaware, Officer-in-Charge Vilas Dadas, Kailas Shinde and other fire personnel.

Local residents and business owners expressed gratitude to the fire brigade for its timely, courageous and well-coordinated efforts, which helped avert a major tragedy.