Pune: Eight killed as multiple vehicles catch fire in massive highway crash
Eight people were killed after two container trucks, a minibus, and several cars collided and caught fire on the Pune–Bengaluru Highway near Navale Bridge on Thursday evening. The vehicles were engulfed in flames, trapping several occupants, while fire and rescue teams worked for hours to control the blaze and pull out the injured. Police suspect brake failure or driver negligence, and the death toll may rise as identification and search efforts continue.
New Delhi: Eight people were killed in a massive road accident on Thursday evening after multiple vehicles collided and caught fire on the Pune–Bengaluru Highway near Pune’s Navale Bridge. The crash involved two containers, a bus, and three to four cars, triggering an inferno that engulfed the vehicles and led to chaos on the busy stretch.
Eight killed in blaze
According to officials, eight people were burned to death, while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to Sassoon Hospital and Navale Hospital. Rescue teams said some victims were trapped inside the mangled, burning vehicles, making the operation extremely challenging.
The accident took place during peak traffic hours, causing a long jam on the highway. Pune Fire Brigade teams reached the spot soon after receiving information and worked to douse the flames. Police personnel also joined the rescue efforts and helped pull out passengers from the vehicles.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire erupted moments after the collision, with towering flames visible from a distance. "The vehicles caught fire immediately… it was terrifying,” one witness said.
Probe into cause
Officials said preliminary information suggests the crash may have been caused by driver negligence or brake failure, though a detailed investigation is underway. Fire brigade officials confirmed that eight bodies have been recovered so far, adding that more casualties are feared as some vehicles were completely burned. Police have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident. The process of identifying the deceased is ongoing.