Two houses in Talavalim were severely damaged early last morning after a massive, centuries-old Peepal tree uprooted and fell on them. Fortunately, no one was inside the homes at the time of the incident.
The tree crashed onto the rooftops and damaged the walls of the houses belonging to Ramadas Naik and Narsihha Talavlikar. Furniture and cupboards were also destroyed.
The families, who reside in Margao and Dharbandora, only visit the Talavalim houses once every fifteen days and usually stay there during Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali celebrations.
The Ponda Fire Brigade team promptly began clearing the fallen tree. However, due to its enormous size, officials estimate that the operation may take at least two days to complete. The Disaster Management team has also assured assistance in the clearing process.
Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar visited the site to inspect the damage, accompanied by local residents and the Wadi Talavalim Panchayat Sarpanch.