Srinagar, Nov 19: As many as 18 structures were reduced to ashes in a devastating fire that broke out in the Dal Lake area of Srinagar on Tuesday evening. The incident has left the affected families homeless and triggered resentment among the local residents over inadequate infrastructure.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire erupted in one structure and quickly spread to nearby buildings, causing extensive damage. Residents, alerted by cries for help, rushed to the spot to extinguish the flames. Fire and Emergency Services personnel soon joined them, and after strenuous efforts, they managed to bring the fire under control.
Local residents expressed anger over the narrow and congested roads, which delayed the arrival of fire tenders. “It took precious time for the fire tenders to reach due to blocked roads,” said one of the aggrieved residents. Many urged the government to either improve road facilities or relocate them to safer areas.
Among the victims, a distraught elderly woman lamented the complete loss of her daughter’s belongings, stating, “She has nothing left, only the clothes she was wearing at the time.” The emotional scenes at the site underscored the enormity of the tragedy, with many women pleading for immediate rehabilitation.
Fire and Emergency Services officials confirmed the incident, stating that while the exact cause of the fire is still unknown, an investigation is underway. “Our teams worked tirelessly to contain the fire, but unfortunately, 18 structures were completely gutted,” said an official.
The incident highlights the increasing frequency of fire mishaps in Srinagar, particularly as winter approaches. The city has witnessed a concerning rise in such incidents, calling for enhanced preventive measures and better infrastructure to avoid future tragedies.
Authorities are yet to assess the full extent of the damage.
