Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa has recorded a notable drop in grassland and wildland fire incidents in 2025, signaling progress in curbing seasonal blazes that have plagued the state in recent years. However, fire officials caution that the threat remains due to persistent human activity and climatic conditions that favor fire outbreaks.
Recent figures from the Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) show that the number of grass and field fires has fallen to 631 so far in 2025, a marked decline from 1,231 in 2024 and a high of 2,408 cases in 2023. Similarly, wildland fires decreased to 86 this year, continuing the downward trend from 190 in 2024 and 599 in 2023.
Despite this improvement, authorities remain concerned. A series of four fires in Taleigao over five days, including a major blaze that devastated open fields and killed several reptiles, forced some residents to temporarily evacuate. While initial investigations link most incidents to human causes such as negligence or illegal stubble burning, at least one fire was reportedly triggered by dry vegetation spontaneously igniting in high heat.
Officials point to a sharp post-pandemic spike in fire incidents, with 2023 seeing nearly nine times more cases than in 2020. This surge was likely due to an accumulation of dry biomass during COVID-19 lockdowns, the restart of agricultural activities, and a lapse in land upkeep.
Data from recent years shows a fluctuating trend in wildland fires: from 411 cases in 2017 to 248 in 2018, then rising to 261 in 2019. A steep drop occurred in 2020 during the pandemic with only 58 cases, but numbers began climbing again to 127 in 2021, 151 in 2022, peaking at 599 in 2023.
A DFES spokesperson noted that the reduction in fire cases post-2023 could be attributed to increased awareness campaigns, enforcement of fire prevention regulations (such as bans on stubble burning), and coordinated inter-agency efforts.
Nonetheless, the department warns that both natural and human factors continue to pose risks. Fires are often fueled by dry conditions, dead grass, strong winds, and temperatures that peak between November and June, making this the most fire-prone period. Beyond property damage and displacement, such fires impact local ecosystems and public health by endangering wildlife and contributing to respiratory issues, especially among vulnerable populations.
To strengthen community engagement, the DFES has rolled out a new mobile application called ‘AGNI SANDES’. This platform allows users to report fire incidents in real time and receive alerts from authorities. The department hopes the app will enhance the public’s role in fire prevention and accelerate emergency responses.
Emphasizing a long-term strategy, the DFES urged communities, civic bodies, and government agencies to work collaboratively. “Data-driven planning, public participation, and strict enforcement are key to protecting Goa’s environment and preventing further loss,” the spokesperson added.
