Eight Dead, Over 20 Injured in Fiery Collision Near Pune’s Navale Bridge

A tragic accident on the Pune–Bengaluru highway near Navale bridge claimed at least eight lives and injured more than 20 people after a devastating chain collision led to a massive fire. The incident occurred on Thursday when a container truck travelling from Satara toward Mumbai reportedly suffered a brake failure. Losing control at high speed, it rammed into several vehicles before crashing into another container truck, trapping a car between the two heavy vehicles.

According to police officials, the truck hit more than seven to eight vehicles in quick succession as it skidded out of control. The severe impact crushed a car between the two containers, and within seconds, friction and damage triggered a powerful blaze. The fire rapidly engulfed both trucks and the trapped vehicle, creating panic and blocking the busy highway.

Fire Brigade teams and police personnel rushed to the spot and managed to bring the fire under control after an intense operation. Rescue teams struggled to retrieve the crushed car lodged between the two containers. Many of the injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and several remain in critical condition. Efforts to identify the deceased are still underway.

A police officer at the scene confirmed that initial assessments point to speeding and mechanical failure as possible causes. Authorities have launched a detailed investigation.

NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule expressed heartfelt condolences, calling the mishap “extremely sad and unfortunate.” She also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.

The Navale bridge stretch has become a high-risk zone, with Thursday’s crash occurring barely two weeks after a similar accident in which a truck carrying tiles lost control and rammed into multiple vehicles. The repeated incidents have raised concerns about road safety and speeding on this busy highway.