Panic reportedly gripped residents near Taleigao football ground after fire erupted from the ground at several spots, believed to have been triggered by an underground gas pipeline leakage. The Panaji fire team rushed to the site and swiftly brought the situation under control. Locals expressed concern over the potential danger of such leaks in residential areas. Gas pipeline leakage has been occurring in the state at a disturbing frequency. Last month quick response by Old Goa Fire Services prevented a major fire at Old Goa, after a gas pipeline leak was reported. In November 2024 the natural gas pipeline laid at Zuarinagar was damaged by workers prompting authorities to shut down the pipeline and undertake emergency repairs. In February 2025 a major disaster was averted in Bhatulem after a gas pipeline was allegedly damaged by some workers. Regular inspections and maintenance using methods like pressure testing and fiber optic sensing is necessary to detect and address potential issues early. Electromagnetic fields can be used to identify structural changes in the pipeline that suggest a leak. Mapping of underground pipelines should be made available before carrying out digging.
