A timely response by the Mapusa Fire Brigade on Monday saved the life of a dog that had fallen into an open well at Castlevaddo, Aldona.
According to locals, the dog accidentally fell into the well earlier in the day. Despite villagers’ attempts to rescue it, they were unsuccessful and soon sought help from the fire brigade. The rescue team, led by Fire Officer Prakash Kannak, reached the spot and managed to safely pull the animal out alive.
Speaking to media, Officer Kannak said, “We received a call about a dog that had fallen into a nearby well. Fortunately, the dog survived because it stood on a small cave-like ledge inside the well — otherwise, it might not have made it.”
He, however, expressed concern over the neglected state of the well, which is located close to the road and surrounded by overgrown grass. “When our team reached the site, we found the well completely covered by tall grass.. It’s a serious hazard — today it was a dog, but tomorrow it could be a person,” he warned.
Kannak appealed to local residents and the village panchayat to take preventive measures, including cleaning the area and securing the well with proper protection. “People must come together and resolve this issue. The water from this well is being used by many, and since it’s already filled with dirt and waste, it could poses a health and safety risk,” he added.
The rescue operation once again highlighted the need for regular maintenance and safety checks of open wells in residential areas to prevent similar accidents.
