State receives 709 calls of dry grass blazes in first three months this year

Panaji: The fire department received 709 calls of dry grass fires from Jan-March 2026. Dry grass fires are usually caused due to a prolonged dry spell, high temperatures and low humidity.

“The green cover in the state lately is vulnerable because of unpredictable weather patterns throughout the year. Crops, plantations and livelihood get destroyed because of the raging fires,” said an official from the department. Among these cases of fire, there were no reports of injuries or fatalities.

Bicholim saw the highest number of calls, 92, as the region features extensive vegetation on the plateau that is often covered in dry grass, especially during the dry season, leading to frequent fires in areas like Bordem, Amona and Karapur. It was followed by Pernem, which saw 79 calls, and Mapusa, which saw 67 calls of dry grass fires.

Official heading the state fire control room said, “This is usually the season when we get higher calls for dry grass fires. With the changing weather patterns, we are seeing cases of dry grass fires throughout the year as well. With the intense heat, these fires tend to spread quickly and destroy other crops and plantations, especially the cashew ones.”

The official said undoused cigarette butts and matchsticks also contribute to the blaze. “In cases of dry grass fires, the cost of the losses are calculated when the plantations or areas belong to a private entity or individual. Otherwise, green cover gets destroyed, and the plantations along with them are deemed as a public space,” he said.

The month of Feb saw the highest number of dry grass fire cases, 337, followed by Jan, which saw 287 calls.