THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
A fire broke out on a hillock in Tivim on Tuesday afternoon, reportedly due to dry grass catching fire in the area where a private university is proposed.
While the blaze has raised some concerns, local residents have downplayed any suspicions, stating that such incidents occur every year during winter.
The fire, which began around 2.30 pm, continued to rage late into the night despite efforts by the Mapusa fire personnel to bring it under control.
Two fire tenders were deployed to douse the flames.
Laxman Shelke, a resident of Khorgailli, Tivim, confirmed that fires on the hill were a common occurrence.
"We have been witnessing these fires every year. This is nothing new to us," he said, adding that while the fire was close to the proposed site of World Peace University, he did not suspect any foul play.
An official from the Mapusa Fire Station confirmed receiving a call about the fire along the Tivim-Pirna road and assured that fire personnel were doing their best to control the situation.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, but authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent any further spread.
