Published On : Tue, May 31st, 2016

Devastating fire at CAD Pulgaon doused, situation under control

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pulgaon Fire
Nagpur:
The devastating fire that broke out at Central Ammunition Depot (CAD), the biggest ammo depot of Indian Army, has been doused after grueling efforts.

Central Ammunition Depot, Pulgaon is located at about 115 Km from Nagpur. The depot is spread over an area of more than 7000 acres and is an important ammunition depot of the Indian Army. It stores a variety of ammunition in numerous sheds located in the depot. As per initial reports, the fire started in one of the sheds at approximately 01:00 hours this morning, and immediate action was taken by the fire fighting parties and Quick Reaction Teams located in the depot by putting the fire fighting mechanism into place as per the laid down procedures. This restricted the fire to one shed only which contained highly sensitive ammunition.

The fire has been completely doused and situation brought under control. However, in the efforts to douse the fire, 2 Officers and 14 personnel (one Army Jawan and 13 civilian fire fighting staff) lost their lives and 2 officers and 15 Personnel (nine Army Jawans and six civilian fire fighting staff) were injured. The injured personnel have been evacuated to Multi Speciality Hospital, Wardha (35 Km from Pulgaon) and are undergoing medical treatment. The medical condition of the injured personnel is reported to be stable. Army medical teams have been moved from Pune to provide specialist medical attention.

The cause of the fire has not yet been ascertained. Actions to assess the damage are in progress. An inquiry has been ordered by the Army.

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, COAS and Senior Defence Officials visited the site to take stock and review the situation. Parrikar expressed deep condolences to the families of the bravehearts who have lost their lives while protecting and securing the important ammunition depot.