Fire Breaks Out In Building Under Construction At Serum Institute, Pune

As per reports a massive fire broke out at Pune's Serum Institute on India on Thursday afternoon. The fire is reported in a building under construction near the Terminal 1 gate of the institute.

Police and fire ambulances have rushed to the spot. Attempts at controlling and putting out the fire has started under the guidance of police and other local administration.

 India Today TV reported that Chief Fire Officer Prashant Ranpise mentioned that at least four people were stuck inside the burning building and three have been rescued.

The vaccination, Covishield against COVID-19 is being manufactured by the Serum Institute of India at Pune. They are world's largest vaccine manufacturer. The coronavirus vaccine has been developed by the SII with the partnership of Oxford University and British-Swedish pharma firm AstraZeneca.

As per statements from the institute officials, scientists, doctors and other workers have been moved from all the blocks to safe places. The vaccine manufacturing unit is safe as per initial reports since the building under is a few miles drive from the main block.

The institute officials reassure in a statement released that the production process of the vaccine will not be affected by the unfortunate fire.

The cause of fire is unknown and further investigation will take place after the fire is completely put out.

The CMO has also reacted to the unfortunate event saying, "Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray is in touch with the Pune Municipal Commissioner and is taking complete on-ground updates."

The Serum Institute CEO tweeted saying, "Thank you everyone for your concern and prayers. So far the most important thing is that there have been no lives lost or major injuries due to the fire, despite a few floors being destroyed."

This is a developing story.

Picture Credit: ANI