Maharashtra: Pune firefighters brave strong current under Garware Bridge to rescue stranded youth

Firefighters secured a rope around his waist, fitted him with a life jacket and carefully brought him to safety. Pic/ Special Arrangement

A 25-year-old man was rescued safely by the Pune Fire Brigade after he became trapped in the strong current of a river beneath Garware Bridge on Monday afternoon, officials said.

The rescue operation was carried out after the Fire Brigade Control Room received an alert at around 4 pm about a person stranded in the river.

Following the emergency call, a rescue team from the Erandwane Fire Station was immediately sent to the location.

When firefighters reached the spot, they found the youth standing in the middle of the flowing river and holding on tightly to a bridge pillar to prevent himself from being swept away by the current, the officials said.

Rescue team uses ropes

According to the officials, understanding the seriousness of the situation, firefighters entered the water with safety equipment, including life jackets, a rescue ring and ropes.

The team approached the stranded man while continuously reassuring him and asking him to remain calm.

The youth, identified as Sagar Agav (25) from Karvenagar, was reportedly in a state of panic during the rescue, an official said.

Firefighters secured a rope around him, provided a life jacket and carefully brought him back to safety.

The rescue operation was completed successfully, with local residents appreciating the quick response of the Pune Fire Brigade personnel.

The team

The operation was carried out by driver Mahesh Pangarkar and firefighters Sachin Aivale, Ashutosh Pingale, Sagar Mundhe, Kamlesh Mane, Rahul Waghmode and Nilesh Patil.