The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Dec 29- The Kashmir Small Scale Industrial Association (KSSIA) has expressed profound regret and sorrow following the loss of a prestigious wood-based industrial unit in the Baghi Ali Mardan Khan Industrial Estate. The fire, which ravaged through the night of December 28-29, 2024, obliterated the facility owned by Syed Sajad Ahmad Qalander of the Ess Que Group, known for producing high-end furniture and wooden artifacts.
The blaze not only razed the building to the ground but also consumed all the raw materials, finished products, and significantly damaged the plant and machinery within. The total financial impact of this disaster is yet to be fully assessed, as investigations continue.
Expressing its solidarity, KSSIA has conveyed heartfelt sympathy and pledged unwavering support to Syed Sajad Qalander and all members associated with the Ess Que Group during this challenging period.
The Association has acknowledged the commendable and swift response from the Fire and Emergency Department, which played a crucial role in containing the fire, thus protecting adjacent units from further destruction.
Additionally, KSSIA has praised the local Police Department, with special mention to SHO Lalbazaar Ashfaq Ahmad, for their prompt action in ensuring the safety and security of the area during the crisis.
General Manager SICOP Waseem Dev, accompanied by other officials, visited the site on Sunday to show solidarity with the affected business. The visit underscored the community’s support amidst the tragedy.
The incident has spurred a collective response from the industrial community, with the Advisory Committee of the Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), led by Shahid Kamili, along with presidents of various industrial estates and associations, expressing concern and support. This event has prompted KSSIA to urge the Advisory Committee to expedite their proposal for an infrastructure audit of industrial estates across the valley. The aim is to enhance firefighting capabilities and address other infrastructural deficiencies to prevent future incidents.
KSSIA President Syed Fazal Illahi, along with office bearers Shabir Ahmad, Haamid Chashoo, Aqib Gulzar, Manzoor Ahmad, and other members, remained at the scene until dawn, overseeing the firefighting efforts and providing support to the affected.
The Association’s response highlights not only the immediate tragedy but also the urgent need for improved safety measures within industrial estates to safeguard against such devastating losses in the future.
