Goa, May 5 -- A significant fire erupted in a dry grass paddy field in Taleigao village, on the outskirts of Panaji, on Monday. The fire spread rapidly, leading to the evacuation of several residents from nearby buildings due to the thick smoke, which posed respiratory risks, particularly to senior citizens, children, and infants. At least five fire tenders were dispatched to control the blaze, which escalated from a minor incident to a large-scale emergency.

Senior fire officer Ranjit Redkar confirmed that several snakes and tortoises were found dead in the fire, and all efforts were being made to bring the situation under control. Residents expressed concerns about their health and safety, with Mahesh Patil, former chief of the Goa Pol...