A brake failure leads to a devastating pile-up and explosion on the Pune–Bengaluru highway, leaving families and first-responders reeling.

What happened

November 14, 2025: On the evening of November 13, a Mumbai-bound trailer truck reportedly lost control due to a brake failure while descending a steep slope on the busy Pune–Bengaluru highway near the Navale Bridge/Bhumkar Bridge stretch. The truck plowed into a line of vehicles, including another heavy truck and a small CNG-fueled car. The car became trapped between the two trucks and burst into flames after an explosion involving leaking fuel and CNG.

The toll

Authorities have confirmed that eight people died in the crash. Among the deceased were five occupants of the small car — two men, two women and a three-year-old girl — plus the driver and cleaner of the trailer truck. At least 20 others were injured and are receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.

Rescue efforts and ongoing investigation

Emergency services, including the fire brigade and police, rushed to the scene. Firefighters faced extreme conditions as the blaze was fuelled by diesel, petrol and a leaking CNG cylinder from the car. A full investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the brake failure and to trace identities of all victims. Traffic was diverted while the wreckage was cleared.

Context and risks

The accident took place on a stretch already flagged as a “blackspot” — an area with a history of serious collisions due to steep slopes and heavy vehicle traffic. Safety experts noted that inadequate vehicle maintenance (especially brakes on heavy vehicles), combined with steep terrain and high speeds, are recurring causes of major pile-ups in the region.

What’s next

Authorities have promised compensation for the families of the deceased, and further forensic work — including DNA testing of charred remains — is underway. The highway section has reopened but remains under review for its safety measures. Stakeholders are calling for stricter enforcement of heavy vehicle braking systems and better signage on steep descents.