PANAJI
Two separate fires erupted at food establishments in North Goa within a span of a little over two hours early morning, destroying property and prompting fire officials to order separate inquiries. No injuries were reported in either incident.
The first blaze broke out shortly after 4.30 am at one of the most popular ‘Gharan’ restaurants in Porvorim. Firefighters rushed to the spot and began dousing the flames even as another team moved quickly to remove LPG cylinders from the premises -- a step officials said was crucial in preventing a possible explosion.
“Had the cylinders not been removed in time, the situation could have turned far more dangerous,” a fire official told The Goan, describing the operation as averting a major hazard.
The restaurant, largely constructed of wood, posed additional challenges for firefighters. Reinforcements were called in from the headquarters to ensure the flames did not reignite. Officials said it took nearly an hour to bring the fire fully under control.
While the cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, the Fire and Emergency Services have written to the Porvorim police seeking a detailed inquiry. The restaurant owners have not yet assessed the extent of the losses.
Barely two hours later, around 6.50 am, another major fire was reported in Calangute. This time, the blaze broke out at an under-construction hotel located on the second floor of a ground-plus-six-storey building. Fire tenders were rushed to the site to contain the flames.
Fire officials said the presence of tarpaulin sheets and other combustible materials stored in a room intensified the fire. Despite the scale of the blaze, no casualties were fortunately reported.
Fire officials said further details would emerge once cooling operations were completed and a preliminary assessment conducted.
