Daijiworld Media Network - Vasco

Vasco, Jan 31: A major fuel pipeline supplying from Mormugao Port to Zuari IAV Private Limited’s depot was damaged during excavation work at Dabolim Junction on Friday. Quick intervention by emergency teams, including fire brigade, police, and ambulances, prevented a major disaster as no fuel was being pumped at the time.

Zuari IAV terminal manager Shriprasad Nayak confirmed the damage, stating that the pipeline was filled with air, helping authorities detect the exact location of the damage. He emphasized the risks of excavating near fuel pipelines and warned that had fuel been transferred, the incident could have been catastrophic.

Nayak revealed that excavation work dangerously close to the pipeline had been halted earlier in the week with police intervention. "Just two days ago, we had to call the police to stop the contractor's team from digging while fuel was being pumped," he added.

Repairs are expected to take four days, and authorities confirmed that fuel stocks are sufficient for the next ten days. Vasco Police Inspector Kapil Nayak assured there was no major threat, with all necessary precautions in place. Mormugao Mamlatdar Pravinjay Pandit confirmed that Zuari IAV provided a written assurance that the repair work poses no danger to residents or commuters. A meeting is planned with the contractor to ensure better coordination and prevent future incidents.