Defence Minister and Army Chief visiting Pulgaon army ammo depot

Indian Army chief General Dalbir Singh is also visiting the ammunition depot to take stock of the situation, media reported.

Two army officers and 15 jawans have been killed in the fire. The injured have been shifted to hospitals.

Reportedly, the fire began in the artillery shed and spread to other areas.

According to latest media reports, the fire is being slowly brought under control. The villagers, who had been evacuated are likely to be allowed to return home, according to local reports.

The reason of the fire is yet to be determined.

The Pulgaon depot is said to be the mother depot which stores all kinds of ammunition.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives caused by a fire at the Central Ammunition Depot.

“Pained by loss of lives caused by a fire at central ammunition depot in Pulgaon, Maharashtra. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I pray that those who are injured recover quickly. Have asked RM @manoharparrikar to visit the spot & take stock of the situation”, the Prime Minister tweeted.

Vice President M. Hamid Ansari too expressed grief over the loss of lives in the ammunition depot fire.

In his message, the vice president said, “I am deeply grieved to learn about the loss of life in the fire at the central ammunition depot in Pulgaon, Maharashtra. I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved families and pray to the Almighty to give them strength and fortitude to withstand this immense loss. I also wish speedy recovery to the injured.”