Srinagar, Oct 23: A massive blaze broke out during the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday in Karfali Mohalla area of Habba Kadal, Srinagar, reducing at least seven residential houses to ashes and leaving thirteen families homeless.
Locals said the fire erupted around midnight near the community hall in the densely populated Karfali Mohalla locality. As flames quickly spread from one house to another, panic gripped the entire area. Fire and Emergency Service teams from multiple stations, including Maharaj Gunj, Babdem, and Headquarters, rushed to the spot to contain the inferno.
Despite intense firefighting operations that continued for several hours, seven residential structures were completely destroyed, while several adjoining houses suffered partial damage. The operation was hampered by narrow lanes and congested housing, typical of the old Srinagar neighbourhood.
Officials from the Fire and Emergency Services Department confirmed that all seven houses were gutted and that at least thirteen families were residing in the affected buildings. Fortunately, no loss of life or serious injuries were reported, though several household goods, valuables, and important documents were lost in the fire.
Police, firefighters, and locals worked in coordination to prevent the fire from spreading further. Eyewitnesses said many residents were seen desperately trying to salvage their belongings amid chaos and thick smoke.
Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire, which is believed to have originated from one of the residential structures. A team from the local police station and the Fire and Emergency Services has begun assessing the damage and recording statements of affected families.
District administration officials visited the site early to take stock of the situation and assured immediate relief and rehabilitation measures for the affected families. [KNT]
