THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
A taxi was extensively damaged after it caught fire near the Ganpati Temple on the Mapusa–Parra road in the early hours of Wednesday, causing panic among passing motorists and nearby residents.
The incident occurred at around 1 am when the vehicle, carrying two tourists and the driver, suddenly burst into flames while travelling along the stretch. Sensing danger, the driver immediately stopped the vehicle and, along with the two passengers, managed to exit safely before the fire rapidly spread through the taxi.
Eyewitnesses said flames quickly engulfed the vehicle, illuminating the area and prompting locals to alert the Fire and Emergency Services.
A team from the Fire and Emergency Services Department rushed to the spot upon receiving the distress call and launched firefighting operations. Firefighters succeeded in bringing the blaze under control, preventing it from spreading to nearby vegetation or other vehicles on the road.
"The occupants had already evacuated the vehicle by the time our personnel reached the site. The fire was extinguished promptly, and no casualties or injuries were reported," a Fire and Emergency Services official said.
The taxi, however, sustained extensive damage and was almost completely gutted in the fire.
Preliminary indications suggest that the blaze may have been triggered by a mechanical or electrical fault, though the exact cause is yet to be determined. Authorities are conducting further investigations into the incident.
