Pune: A fire at Dhruvtara, a prominent study center located at Ganjve Chowk in Navi Peth area, has left hundreds of students preparing for competitive exams, such as the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC), devastated.

The blaze, which authorities suspect was caused by a short circuit, destroyed essential resources including laptops, books, notes, and educational certificates.

With just two months remaining for these critical exams, the incident has not only disrupted students’ preparation but also raised serious concerns about safety and compliance at such facilities.

Students, many of whom had been rigorously preparing for exams over the past year, expressed their frustration and anxiety over the loss.

"I lost all my study materials in the fire. It’s heartbreaking to think that everything I’ve worked for is gone," one student lamented. The fire has created an atmosphere of fear among students across Pune, many of whom now question the safety standards of study centers.

Reports suggest that study centers often exceed their seating capacities, compromising safety regulations, and fail to implement proper fire safety measures, such as emergency exits and fire extinguishers.

Municipal authorities have faced criticism for not conducting timely fire audits, leading to vulnerabilities at such centers.

The incident has sparked a call for urgent reforms, with students demanding regular safety audits and stricter regulations to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

In July 2024, a devastating fire broke out at the office and hostel of Nilaya Institute, an educational institution in Sadashiv Peth, resulting in the death of hostel manager Rahul Kulkarni. Fire brigade personnel had rescued 40 female students, averting a larger tragedy.