Pune, July 8, 2025 : In a heart-stopping incident that unfolded in Pune’s Katraj area, a 4-year-old girl was rescued after she was seen dangling from a third-floor window for nearly 15 minutes. The dramatic rescue was carried out by an off-duty firefighter, turning what could have been a tragedy into a story of bravery and quick action.

The girl, identified as Bhavika Chandane, had been left alone at home for a brief period when the incident occurred. Her mother had stepped out to drop off Bhavika’s elder sister at school. In that short window, Bhavika appears to have climbed onto the bedroom window and slipped through the iron grille, leaving her hanging dangerously from the ledge with just her arms keeping her from falling.

As terrified neighbors looked on, they shouted for help, but no one could reach the child in time. Fortunately, firefighter Yogesh Arjun Chavan, who was off duty and at home nearby, heard the commotion. Without hesitation, he threw on a towel, rushed out of his home, and ran toward the building where the child was hanging.

Chavan, a veteran firefighter with over a decade of service, entered the building and made his way to the third-floor apartment. With guidance from residents and a sense of urgency, he reached the window and managed to grab the child from the other side of the grille, pulling her to safety. Her mother, who had returned by then, helped him bring Bhavika inside.

Witnesses praised the child’s strength and resilience, noting that she held on without falling despite being in such a perilous position for over 15 minutes. Chavan later said that Bhavika’s determination to hold on “showed immense courage for a child her age.”

The firefighter also pointed out that the girl may have woken up from sleep and wandered to the window while playing. He emphasized the need for families, especially those living in high-rise apartments, to childproof windows and balconies.

The rescue has sparked conversations around child safety in urban homes. Experts advise installing child locks on windows, using safety nets or window guards, and never leaving young children unattended—even for short durations.

Following the rescue, Bhavika was checked for any injuries. While she was visibly shaken, she did not suffer any serious harm. Fire department officials lauded Chavan’s swift response and noted that such actions, even while off-duty, embody the spirit of public service.

The incident serves as both a warning and an inspiration—a reminder that a split second can lead to danger, but also that a moment of courage can save a life. Thanks to the bravery of one man and the strength of a little girl, a potentially tragic event ended with tears of relief and applause from an entire neighborhood.