MARGAO: A massive fire engulfed the Tourism Departments public toilet block at the Mobor beach, early Saturday virtually reducing it to ashes. Alongside a fishing canoe and a hut belonging to a local fishermen also went up in smoke.
By the time the Cuncolim Fire brigade reached the spot, they found that the majority of the structure had already ravaged in the blaze. President of the Shack Owners Welfare Society Cruz Cardozo called for the maintenance of such beach structures, recalling a fire that had taken place a year and a half ago, which was extinguished by local youth.
After learning about the fire from his staff, Cardozo had promptly called the fire brigade but the damage was extensive. Cardozo also said the fishermen suffered losses to the tune of Rs 5 lakh.
Staff of the agency who oversee the toilet operations, while speaking to media persons, however, suspected foul play in the incident. They argued against the panel being the sole cause, noting that the entire structure would have burned if that were the case. The staff member also suggested the possibility of alleged intentional involvement, emphasizing the regular maintenance efforts undertaken.
