Pune: Schoolgirl’s Presence Of Mind And Courage Saves Biker From Drowning In Flooded Stream In Shirur

Shirur, 28th May 2025: In a heartwarming act of courage, a schoolgirl rescued a motorcyclist from drowning after he fell into a swollen stream in Shirur taluka, where continuous rainfall has caused water levels in rivers and drains to rise significantly.
Due to ongoing construction on the bridge connecting Vadhu Wajewadi and Pimpale Jagtap, authorities had temporarily laid large pipes to facilitate traffic. However, this makeshift passage has become increasingly dangerous as water levels have surged.
On Monday (26th May), Gopinath Shelar was riding his motorcycle along this route when he misjudged the depth of the stream and fell into the strong current with his vehicle. At that moment, Anushka Dhananjay Farate, a Class 10 student returning from her tuition class, witnessed the incident from the other side.
Without hesitation and disregarding her own safety, Anushka rushed to help. She urged Shelar to hold onto the motorcycle, then bravely pulled the vehicle—and Shelar along with it—out of the water. Her quick thinking and courageous response saved his life.
The temporary structure had already been flagged as hazardous due to the bridge construction in progress. Authorities are now facing renewed calls to ensure better safety measures in such high-risk areas.
Anushka’s courage and presence of mind has drawn widespread praise from the local community, with many calling her a role model for others. Her bravery in the face of danger have made her a local hero.