A significant fire incident occurred at a sawmill located in Davorlim, Salcete, during the early hours of Friday, causing substantial damage to the facility. According to reports from the Margao fire station, the emergency control room received an alert at 2.46am, prompting an immediate response from firefighters.
Firefighting Efforts and Challenges
Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters were met with intense flames erupting from the sawmill, making the situation critical. A fire officer from the Margao station described the blaze as so severe that the initial water supply proved insufficient to control it. "The fire was intense, and we quickly realized we needed more resources," the officer stated.
Reinforcements Called In
To combat the raging fire, a total of five fire tenders were deployed. Reinforcements were summoned from multiple fire stations across the region, including Cuncolim, Curchorem, Verna, Ponda, and the Panaji headquarters. This coordinated effort was essential in managing the blaze and preventing further spread.
Suspected Cause of the Fire
While the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, officials have pointed to a likely electrical short circuit as the source. CCTV footage reviewed by authorities showed a spark followed by rapid flame propagation throughout the facility, supporting this suspicion. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
Extent of Damage
The fire resulted in the destruction of various wooden items stored for sale, such as rafters and beams, along with six wood-processing machines housed within the sawmill. "The loss is significant, but an exact estimate has not been calculated yet," officials noted. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures in industrial setups.
This fire highlights the importance of robust fire safety protocols in industrial areas, especially in facilities handling flammable materials like wood. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough review to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
