A massive fire tore through two adjacent packaging companies in Daman's industrial area on January 5 (Monday) in a shocking escalation. Eyewitnesses reported thick black smoke billowing skyward, visible from kilometers away, as flames rapidly consumed the facilities. Preliminary investigations point to a short circuit as the likely trigger, igniting highly flammable materials stored within the units.
Rapid response mobilised
Alerted immediately, seven fire tenders rushed to the spot from nearby stations, sirens blaring through the night. Firefighters, equipped with hoses and breathing apparatus, launched a high-stakes operation to contain the blaze. The fire's ferocity challenged initial efforts, with intense heat and exploding containers forcing teams to adopt tactical approaches.
Fire officer's on-site assessment
Fire Officer Rajesh B Marge, leading the response, described the harrowing sight upon arrival: "When we reached here, we found it to be a major fire. The entire industry here was ablaze. Firefighting operation is underway..." His team worked relentlessly, prioritizing containment to prevent spread to neighboring factories in the densely packed zone.
As of the latest updates, firefighting efforts continue unabated, with water jets dousing hotspots amid acrid smoke. No casualties have been reported yet, thanks to swift evacuation, but the full extent of property damage remains unclear. Authorities have cordoned off the area, urging locals to avoid it while power supplies are cut to mitigate risks.
Investigation underway
Daman fire services, alongside local police and disaster response teams, are probing the exact cause and assessing environmental impact from potential chemical releases. This incident highlights vulnerabilities in industrial safety amid Daman's booming manufacturing sector.
