A fire on October 28 night in Vasco’s Sunday modern market gutted more than 140 shops and goods worth crores of rupees were destroyed. Sixteen fire tenders were deployed from Vasco Fire Station, Indian Navy, Mormugao Port Authority, Zuari and Goa Shipyard Limited. The cause of the fire is not known. While clearing the congested lanes and pulling down inflammable tarpaulin sheets the firemen faced hostility from some traders and locals (TGE Nov 1). During the heat of the moment, they abused and obstructed the firemen. This is unacceptable. Some of the people have been identified and details sent to the government for action. One can understand that emotions were running high and the palpable tension of the shopkeepers but these cannot justify their action to turn upon their saviours. Imagine what would have happened if in retaliation the firefighters had slowed down their efforts. Being professionals with a compassionate nature, they courageously battled and successfully brought the fire under control. They put their lives to risk and some were injured but their fighting spirit held them up. They need to be appreciated and awarded rather than be manhandled.
SRIDHAR D IYER, Caranzalem
