Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, on Sunday urged people to install fire extinguishers and insure their properties to prevent losses caused by fire incidents.
His remarks came during a visit to Sonamarg, where a devastating blaze destroyed shops worth crores on Saturday.
While speaking to reporters, Div Com Bidhuri, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), assured that the administration would provide all possible help to the affected shopkeepers and business owners. “I request all establishments to take preventive measures and opt for insurance. No one would have thought two days ago that such an incident would occur.
Fire acts like an enemy, and we must take precautionary measures to mitigate its impact,” he said.
The unfortunate incident led to significant financial losses, though, fortunately, there was no loss of life due to the alertness and quick response of local residents and the administration.
Div Com Bidhuri informed that land has been identified for the construction of a Fire and Emergency Service Station in Sonamarg to improve fire safety measures in the area. “As an interim measure, two fire tenders will be stationed at Z-Morh and near the Youth Hostel to ensure a prompt response to emergencies,” he added.
He further stated that relief measures are being proposed for the affected shopkeepers and discussions with market associations have been held.
“We have assured them that they will be provided all possible assistance to resume their normal lives at the earliest,” he said—(KNO)
