A major fire broke out yesterday afternoon at the Uruli Devachi garbage depot in Pune, causing panic in the surrounding areas. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the site as the fire rapidly spread across the large expanse of accumulated waste.

The exact cause of the blaze is yet to be determined, but officials suspect that the intense heat and combustible waste materials may have triggered the fire.

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) immediately dispatched five fire engines and several water tankers to the scene. Firefighters have been working relentlessly to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading further. The operation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to douse the flames as quickly as possible.

Local residents have expressed concern over the recurring fire incidents at the depot, citing health hazards due to smoke and air pollution. Authorities have urged people living nearby to stay indoors and avoid exposure to the smoke.

PMC officials have assured that a detailed investigation will be carried out to ascertain the cause of the fire and prevent similar incidents in the future. Updates on the situation are awaited as the firefighting operation continues.