Srinagar, March 1 (KNT): Panic gripped the Kralyar area of Rainawari near VB College in Srinagar after a massive fire broke out during the intervening night, gutting three residential-cum-commercial structures and triggering a large-scale firefighting operation in the densely populated locality.
According to officials, a running fire call was received at the State Fire Control Room, Batamaloo, prompting Fire Station Rainawari to rush to the spot. With flames rapidly spreading in the congested neighbourhood, reinforcements were mobilised from Fire Stations Babdemb, Headquarters, Gowkadal, Syed Hameed Pora, Maharaj Gunj, Nowshahra, and Hazratbal.
🔥 Buildings Engulfed in Flames
On arrival, firefighters found two adjoining three-storey residential-cum-commercial buildings, constructed in an L-shaped pattern, fully engulfed in flames. A nearby single-storey structure housing a bread-making shop had also caught fire. A scooty bearing registration number JK01BB 8501 was damaged in the blaze.
Firefighters launched an intensive operation under extremely challenging conditions, battling thick smoke, narrow lanes, and closely packed structures. After several hours of sustained efforts, the blaze was finally brought under control, preventing it from spreading further in the crowded area.
🏚️ Extensive Damage Reported
Preliminary damage assessment revealed significant losses:
- First three-storey structure: Roofing, first floor, and second floor severely damaged. A steel trunk shop and an electric shop operating inside the premises suffered heavy losses.
- Second three-storey structure: Roofing and second floor severely damaged, while the lower floors sustained water damage. A grocery shop and vegetable outlets reported substantial water-related losses.
- Third structure: A single-storey building housing a bread-making shop was severely damaged.
🚒 High-Level Supervision
The operation was carried out under the overall supervision of ADGP Fire and Emergency Services Alok Kumar, with on-ground supervision by Deputy Director F&ES Command Srinagar Dr. Mir Aqib Hussain and Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah.
🔍 Cause Under Investigation
Officials confirmed that the cause of the fire has not yet been ascertained and remains under investigation. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident.
Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed assessment of the damage in the coming days.
