What Caused the Massive Fire at the Pul Patra Sawmill in Bhopal?
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Synopsis
A catastrophic fire erupted in Bhopal's Pul Patra sawmill area, threatening homes and consuming vast amounts of timber. Eyewitness accounts detail dramatic flames and extensive firefighting efforts. The cause remains uncertain as authorities work to control the blaze and assess damages.
Key Takeaways
- Major fire erupted in Bhopal's timber stockyard.
- Over 25 fire tenders were deployed to contain the blaze.
- Initial assessments suggest a significant area has been consumed.
- Authorities are investigating the cause, including potential safety violations.
- Public safety measures are being implemented to protect nearby residents.
Bhopal, Nov 9 (NationPress) A significant fire broke out on Sunday in the densely populated timber stockyard near the Pul Patra (Bridge) sawmill area, swiftly consuming thousands of cubic feet of seasoned timber and posing a threat to the nearby residential zones.
The source of the blaze remains undetermined, prompting the deployment of an extraordinary 25 fire tenders in an urgent effort to control the inferno before it escalates into a more substantial urban catastrophe.
Witnesses reported seeing immense flames shoot up 50-60 feet into the night sky within moments of the initial ignition, accompanied by thick black smoke clouding the skyline.
“It began with a crackling noise at the center of the yard, then erupted. Within seconds, the entire stock was ablaze,” recounted a local shopkeeper whose store is situated merely 200 meters away.
Fire department representatives confirmed that 25 firefighting units, including high-capacity water bowsers, foam tenders, and hydraulic platforms, were mobilized from the Bhopal fire station.
“Initially, we attempted to extinguish the fire with two water tankers, but it was futile. The fire ignited around 7:30 p.m. and remained uncontained until 9 p.m.,” a firefighter conveyed. “This is one of the largest timber-yard fires we’ve faced in years. The piled logs act like a tinderbox—every gust of wind ignites new flare-ups,” stated Station Officer Rajesh Malviya, who is overseeing operations on the ground.
Authorities have cordoned off a 1-km area surrounding labor colonies and shanties as a precaution. Traffic on the Pul Patra bridge and key roads has been rerouted, resulting in significant congestion.
Senior police officials are collaborating with fire teams to avert casualties and secondary explosions from stored chemicals in nearby warehouses.
Preliminary evaluations indicate that the fire has already devoured an area comparable to three football fields, with radiant heat warping metal shutters of nearby workshops.
“Wind speeds of 15-20 km/h are pushing embers towards the warehouses. We’re establishing water curtains to create firebreaks,” a senior firefighter explained.
Authorities suspect the fire may have originated from an electrical short circuit, discarded cigarette butts, or even deliberate sabotage, though forensic teams can only investigate once the site cools down—likely after dawn.
The stockyard, which is owned by multiple sawmill operators, reportedly contained over 50,000 cubic feet of teak, sal, and plywood logs valued at several lakh rupees.
Point of View
The incident at the Pul Patra sawmill underscores the need for enhanced fire safety regulations in densely populated areas. As Bhopal battles this crisis, it is crucial to prioritize safety measures to prevent future disasters while ensuring rapid response capabilities are in place.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at the Pul Patra sawmill?
The exact cause is still under investigation, with authorities suspecting possibilities like electrical short circuits or discarded cigarette butts.
How many fire tenders were deployed to control the fire?
An unprecedented 25 fire tenders were mobilized to combat the blaze.
Is the fire under control now?
As of the last report, the fire was still not under control, with efforts ongoing.
What measures are being taken to ensure public safety?
Police have cordoned off a 1-km radius and are collaborating with fire crews to mitigate risks.
How much timber was involved in the fire?
The stockyard reportedly held over 50,000 cubic feet of timber, including teak, sal, and plywood logs.
