The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the loss of lives due massive fire at the Central Ammunition Depot in Pulgaon, Wardha district of Maharashtra.

In a message to Shri Chennamaneni Vidyasagar Rao, Governor of Maharashtra, the President has said "I am sad to know about the massive fire at the Central Ammunition Depot in Pulgaon, Wardha district of Maharashtra, in which some persons have lost their lives and many others are injured.I understand rescue as well as relief operations are currently underway. My thoughts and prayers are with the injured and the families who have lost their near and dear ones.

I call upon the State Government and other authorities to provide all possible aid to the bereaved families as well as medical assistance to the injured.

Please convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased.I wish speedy recovery to the injured persons”.

This release issued at 1130 hrs.