A car and a tanker were destroyed while another tanker was badly damaged. Up to press time, firemen remained on the scene to ensure that the fire did not restart. The fire started at around 10 pm, although it was not clear how it began. Jaikishan Naipal, the owner of the service station said that he was at a nearby restaurant when he was alerted about the fire.
It started on the ground above an underground tank. He said that he rushed over and using fire extinguishers, attempted to quell the flames. However, it continued to blaze and consumed a nearby car. A truck with several gas tanks was destroyed as well. The tanks were empty at the time.
A nearby tanker which was filled with gasoline was badly scorched, and its tyres burnt.
Naipal praised the fire service, which he said was prompt in responding. He also thanked his neighbours who assisted in battling the flames.
When Stabroek News arrived on the scene, the flames were out but smoke was emanating from the underground tank, which was being checked by firemen. A large number of residents had congregated at the scene. Naipal could not give an estimate of the losses suffered last night.
