Team Herald
PANJIM: A fire that broke out in a dry grass field at Cambrabhat in Taleigao on Monday raged for over six hours before it was doused by fire tenders, causing panic in the surrounding residential areas and forcing some residents to evacuate from their apartments.
The blaze began around 11:30 am and sent thick plumes of smoke into nearby homes and flats. Residents reported that the fire, initially limited to a small patch of dry grass, rapidly spread across the field, overwhelming fire services despite their swift response. Fire tenders from Panjim HQ, Pilerne and Porvorim Fire Stations were deployed to the scene. However, the lack of accessible roads to the field made it difficult for emergency personnel to fully control the flames.
"The smoke was unbearable," said Aflfia Fernandes, a resident of a nearby flat. "Our entire apartment was filled with smoke and we had to leave for safety. The situation was worsened by the fact that fire tenders could not easily access the field due to the lack of a proper road."
Fortunately, no major injuries were reported, but the fire resulted in significant losses to local wildlife, with over 50 reptiles — including snakes, frogs and tortoises — perishing in the flames. Additionally, crops in the area were damaged.
Fire and Emergency Services (FES) Director Nitin Raikar confirmed that four fire tenders were dispatched, and rescue operations were carried out for residents facing respiratory distress.
A 108 ambulance was called to assist, particularly for elderly individuals. A total of 30 people, including two elderly individuals aged 95 and 70, were rescued from the affected area.
Locals speculate that the fire may have been sparked by the common practice of setting dry grass alight in open fields during the summer months. The incident has raised concerns about the risks of such practices, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas.
Cecill Rodrigues, a resident of the area, expressed frustration with recurring fires in the field. "This has become a routine issue," she said. "Families are affected every year and it’s becoming unbearable. We’ve repeatedly asked the panchayat to find a solution, but nothing has been done."
Rodrigues also highlighted the ongoing demand for a Gaushala, which residents have been requesting for the past 12 years. "There’s always a solution, but there needs to be a will to address the problem," she added.
Witnesses reported that the fire initially started in a small area of the field before rapidly spreading. "At first, the fire was contained, but then it spread to almost the entire field," one eyewitness noted.
The fire has raised alarms about the safety and preparedness of local authorities to handle such emergencies, especially in residential areas with limited access for emergency vehicles. Police have been notified, and an inquiry into the cause of the fire is underway.