An elderly woman from Malkarnem in Quepem taluka lost her life in a tragic domestic accident earlier this week. The victim has been identified as 65-year-old Usha Prabhu Malkarnekar. She sustained critical burn injuries after her saree accidentally caught fire while she was lighting an oil lamp at her residence.
Reports state that the mishap occurred during her daily household prayers. Within seconds, the flame spread to her attire, engulfing her in fire. Neighbours and family members rushed in upon hearing her cries and managed to extinguish the flames. However, by then Malkarnekar had already suffered severe injuries.
She was shifted to Goa Medical College and Hospital in Bambolim, where doctors tried to save her. Despite medical efforts, her injuries proved fatal, and she passed away while undergoing treatment. The incident has left the community of Malkarnem shaken, as she was well regarded for her simple and devout way of life.
Accidental fire cases caused by oil lamps or cooking flames continue to occur across rural Goa, where traditional household practices remain common. Experts have repeatedly urged people to take precautions while dealing with open flames, especially when wearing synthetic or loose-fitting clothes such as sarees, which are highly flammable.
The untimely death of Usha Prabhu Malkarnekar serves as a reminder of the risks posed by everyday practices, when basic safety measures are overlooked. Authorities are expected to register the case as an accidental fire death, while the village mourns the loss of a respected elder.