Pune: Fire Evacuates Over 5,000 Visitors At Westend Mall In Aundh
Aundh, 22nd November 2023: On Wednesday night, panic ensued at Westend Mall in Aundh as over 5,000 visitors were evacuated due to a fire reported in an exhaust duct during peak visitor rush.
The incident, which started on the ground floor around 9 pm and escalated to the third floor, was swiftly brought under control, causing no casualties.
Fire brigade officials responded promptly, bringing the situation under control within 20 minutes. Upon discovery of the fire in the exhaust duct, personnel headed to the third floor. Using a fire axe and chisel, they created a sizable hole in the exhaust blower window, effectively extinguishing the fire with the permanent fire extinguisher on-site.
Fire Officers Shivaji Memane and Kamlesh Sangale commended the quick response, emphasizing the role of the mall staff in utilizing the on-site permanent fire extinguisher to combat the fire. Preliminary investigations suggest an electrical short circuit as the likely cause.
The evacuation process ensured the safety of all present, preventing injuries or fatalities. Fire vehicles from Pashan and Aundh Fire Station swiftly arrived at the scene, contributing to the efficient handling of the situation.
