Goa, May 10 -- A massive fire erupted Saturday in an abandoned laterite quarry at Chandimal Kashti, Sanvordem, triggering panic in the nearby areas. The quarry, reportedly used as an illegal dumping ground for chemical-filled barrels, caught fire under yet-to-be-determined circumstances.

Thick plumes of smoke and flames were seen rising from the site, and firefighting teams have been deployed to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to the nearby village, which lies dangerously close to the affected area.

Emergency services are on high alert, and efforts are underway to assess the nature of the chemicals involved and the potential environmental impact. Local residents have been advised to stay indoors and avoid inhaling the sm...