Pune: 16-Year-Old Vedant Botre Rescued from River by PCMC Fire Brigade in Daring Harris Bridge Operation

Pune, June 20, 2025 – In a heroic rescue operation, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) Fire Brigade saved the life of a 16-year-old boy, Vedant Botre, who fell into the river from Harris Bridge while attempting a photoshoot this afternoon around 1:45 PM. The teenager was swept away by the fast-flowing water and got trapped near a column before the fire brigade team successfully brought him to safety using a boat and an OBM (Outboard Motor).
Swift and Coordinated Rescue Effort
Eyewitnesses immediately alerted emergency services after Vedant slipped and plunged into the river. The PCMC Fire Brigade, along with additional support, launched a rapid response. The rescue team, equipped with boats and safety gear, navigated the strong currents to reach Vedant, who was stuck in a precarious position.
Heroes Behind the Rescue
The successful operation was led by:
- Mr. Vikas Naik (Station Officer)
- Mr. Rupesh Jadhav (Station Officer)
- Mr. Gautam Ingawale (Station Officer)
- Mr. Prathamesh Bhosale (Fireman)
- Mr. Vishal Chavan (Fireman)
- Mr. Avishkar Pisal (Training Fireman)
along with other dedicated personnel.
Their swift action and expertise ensured Vedant was safely extracted and handed over to his relieved parents.
आज दुपारी पावणेदोन वाजेच्या सुमारास फोटोस्टंट करताना हॅरीस ब्रिजवरून नदीपात्रात पडलेल्या १६ वर्षीय वेदांत बोत्रे याचा जीव वाचवण्यात पिंपरी चिंचवड महानगरपालिकेच्या अग्निशामक दलाच्या जवानांनी यश मिळवले आहे. pic.twitter.com/nF6JxvlTbQ
— PCMC (@pcmcindiagovin) June 20, 2025
PCMC Fire Brigade: “Your Safety, Our Duty!”
The PCMC Fire Brigade reiterated its commitment to public safety, emphasizing preparedness and rapid response in emergencies. The team’s bravery and efficiency were widely praised by locals and authorities alike.
Conclusion
Thanks to the timely intervention of the fire brigade, a potential tragedy was averted. Vedant, though shaken, escaped without injuries and was reunited with his family. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks near water bodies and the importance of caution.