Team Herald
MARGAO: The recent fire at the Verna Industrial Estate, which destroyed around 40 cars, has spurred the Goa Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) to tighten safety measures across the estate while also issuing closure notice to the unit in question. GIDC Chairman Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco has directed all industries in the area to conduct a thorough review of safety protocols and ensure compliance to prevent similar incidents. He stressed the need to maintain clear surroundings and address fire hazards promptly, warning of strict action against defaulters.
Following the blaze, GIDC took immediate action against the automobile service centre found in violation of safety regulations. Acting on a report that was submitted by its estate wing, GIDC revoked the service centre's occupancy certificate and ordered its operations to cease.
The estate wing's report revealed that vehicles awaiting servicing were parked in open spaces, disregarding prior directives from the Corporation. This negligence was identified as a major factor in the fire's rapid spread. GIDC Managing Director Pravimal Abhishek confirmed, “We have issued show cause notices to the retailers for ignoring our earlier orders to remove the illegally parked vehicles. They have seven days to respond, after which further action will be initiated.”
Abhishek emphasized that the operators’ failure to comply with previous notices had serious consequences. “The occupancy certificate was revoked immediately after reviewing the report. The facility has since shut down operations, and the operators have complied,” he stated.
The fire, which began in dry grass before spreading to parked vehicles, has highlighted the risks of unattended hazards. Lourenco disclosed that many of the affected vehicles had been left abandoned for two to three years, despite earlier notices to the company responsible. “We have taken action against them for their non-compliance,” he said.
Describing the incident as an “eye-opener,” Lourenco reiterated the importance of clearing dry grass and flammable materials from premises. “Industries must take precautions to address fire hazards. Failure to comply will lead to strict action,” he warned.