VALPOI
Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds on Sunday evening resulted in several large trees being uprooted across Sattari Taluka, blocking roads and damaging overhead power lines at different locations. The incidents temporarily disrupted traffic, but prompt action by the Valpoi Fire and Emergency Services ensured that all affected roads were cleared and normal traffic restored. No casualties or property damage were reported.
The first incident was reported at around 4 pm near the old poultry farm at Kopardem, where a large jungle tree collapsed across the road and onto electricity lines, posing a risk to motorists and disrupting the power supply. A team from the Valpoi Fire and Emergency Services, led by Krishna C. Naik, immediately rushed to the spot and used specialized cutting equipment to remove the tree and reopen the road.
The operation was carried out with the assistance of Mahadev S. Gawde, Rama Y. Naik, Sainath G. Sawant, and Gokuldas R. Degvekar. The operation was completed without any injuries or damage to property.
At around 6 pm, another large tree fell across the road near Sateri Temple at Mauxi. Soon afterwards, a similar incident was reported near Shantadurga Temple at Ambeli, where a fallen tree blocked traffic.
The Fire and Emergency Services immediately deployed two separate teams to tackle the emergencies. The Ambeli operation was led by Pradeep S. Gaonkar, assisted by Mahadev S. Gawde, Rama Y. Naik, and Aditya L. Gawas. The teams successfully cleared both roads, and the rescue operations were completed by approximately 8 pm.
Officials said the swift response of the Valpoi Fire and Emergency Services helped restore normal traffic in a short time and prevented any major mishap. Their careful handling of the tree that had fallen on power lines also helped avert further damage and ensured the safety of the public.
With heavy rainfall and gusty winds continuing to affect the region, authorities have cautioned that similar incidents cannot be ruled out in the coming days. Residents have been advised to stay away from large trees during adverse weather, avoid touching fallen trees or damaged power lines, and immediately report such incidents to the Fire and Emergency Services, the Electricity Department, or the local administration.
