A tragic incident unfolded in the Shanipar area of Pune city, Maharashtra, in the early hours of Friday when a fire engulfed a five-storey building housing a hostel. Officials reported the loss of a watchman’s life and the successful rescue of over 40 girl students.

According to Devendra Potphode, the chief fire officer of Pune Municipal Corporation, the fire broke out around 1:30 am. The building, which accommodated an accounting academy on the ground floor, had its hostel on the second floor. Upon receiving the distress call, the fire brigade swiftly responded to the scene.

Fortunately, prior to the brigade’s arrival, locals had already evacuated the girl students from the hostel. Tragically, the watchman, found in his early 40s, lost his life due to burn injuries sustained on the ground floor. Efforts to save him were futile, as doctors at Sassoon General Hospital declared him dead upon arrival.

Sandip Singh Gill, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-1), confirmed the watchman’s identity and stated that the cause of the fire remains under investigation. The incident highlights the importance of swift response and community cooperation in such emergencies.