NT Reporter
Sankhali
A massive fire broke out in the Sankhali Municipal Market around 1.30 am on Monday, gutting three shops and causing estimated losses of about Rs 60 lakh. Firefighters from the Bicholim and Valpoi fire stations battled the blaze for nearly two hours before it was brought
under control.
The blaze, initially suspected to have been triggered by a short circuit, completely destroyed a grocery store, a clothing shop and another store.
Bicholim Fire Department officer Rahul Desai said a bigger tragedy was averted when a filled gas cylinder was safely removed. “The fire was brought under control after two hours of efforts by fire brigade personnel with cooperation from locals,” he said.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who visited the site to inspect the damage, directed the talathi to submit a report on the losses and said the government will provide all possible support and financial assistance.
Residents said that although the market was inaugurated just five years ago, fire safety systems had not been installed. Sankhali chairperson Siddhi Prabhu said she will review the safety measures in the entire market area.
