VASCO
In a potentially life-threatening incident, a major fuel pipeline connecting the port to the Zuari IAV Private Limited tanking facility was damaged during excavation work carried out by an NHAI contractor at Dabolim Junction on Friday afternoon.
Emergency services were immediately deployed, with fire brigade units and ambulances stationed at the site. The Vasco police and traffic police rushed to the scene, swiftly diverting traffic on the busy four-lane highway, leading to heavy congestion.
Shriprasad Nayak, Terminal Manager of Zuari IAV Private Limited, confirmed that immediate action was taken and that, a major disaster was averted.
"The pipeline is crucial as it supplies fuel from ships at the port to our depot and from there to petrol pumps across the State. Fortunately, a major disaster was averted as no fuel was being pumped at the time. The idle pipeline was filled with air, and when the contractor's breaker damaged it, the air was released, alerting us to the exact location of the damage," Nayak said.
He emphasised the risks involved when excavation occurs near the fuel pipeline, particularly during active fuel pumping.
"Had this happened during fuel transfer, it could have led to a catastrophe. That’s why we strictly halt excavation work during pumping operations. We have repeatedly informed the contractor about the presence of our fuel pipeline, yet such incidents continue to occur," Nayak added.
According to Nayak, past attempts to stop excavation work near the pipeline had required police intervention.
"Just two days ago, when pumping was ongoing, excavation work began dangerously close to the pipeline. Despite our requests, the contractor’s team refused to stop without higher authorisation. We had to involve the police, who then instructed the contractor to halt operations," he revealed.
He further stated that the company had taken precautions by marking the pipeline’s location with cement poles and pits.
"Our security personnel were present at the site today and tried to intervene, but the contractor’s staff claimed they had instructions to proceed with excavation. This negligence could have cost lives," he warned.
