On the afternoon of September 26, 2025, a catastrophic fire broke out in a 14-storey residential building, the Marvel Ideal Society, located on Jagdamba Bhavan Road in Undri, Pune. The blaze, which originated in a flat on the 12th floor, rapidly escalated, leading to the death of a 15-year-old boy and injuries to five others, including two firefighters.

According to fire officials, the incident occurred around midday when flames engulfed the apartment, triggering panic among residents. The Pune Fire Department swiftly deployed five fire tenders and a hydraulic ladder vehicle to the scene.

Firefighters ascended to the upper floors, battling intense heat and smoke to extinguish the flames. However, during the operation, a gas cylinder in the affected flat exploded, exacerbating the situation. The explosion injured two firefighters and three residents, who were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have been sparked by an electrical fault, though the exact cause remains under investigation. The explosion of the gas cylinder not only hindered firefighting efforts but also caused significant structural damage to the apartment, complicating rescue operations. The 15-year-old victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident, marking a tragic loss for the community.

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The injured, including the firefighters, are receiving medical attention, with two of the residents reported to be in critical condition. The fire has since been brought under control, and cooling operations are ongoing to prevent any re-ignition. Authorities have cordoned off the area, and an inquiry has been launched to determine the circumstances leading to the blaze and the subsequent explosion.

This incident has raised concerns about fire safety in high-rise residential buildings in Pune, prompting calls for stricter regulations and regular safety audits. The Marvel Ideal Society management has assured residents that they are cooperating fully with the authorities to investigate the tragedy and prevent future occurrences.

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