Ganderbal, Feb 9: The President of the Sonamarg Hoteliers Association, Farooq Ahmad Hafiz, Sunday expressed grief over the devastating fire that swept through parts of the scenic tourist destination, causing extensive financial losses to the local business community. He demanded immediate relief and rehabilitation for the fire-affected.
In a statement, Hafiz conveyed his deep sympathies to the affected traders, acknowledging the immense hardship they now face. “Such tragedies not only bring financial devastation but also leave lasting emotional scars. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, and I urge the authorities to take immediate steps for their relief and rehabilitation,” he stated.
Recognising the vital role of Sonamarg’s hospitality industry in the region’s economy, Hafiz assured unwavering support from the hoteliers’ association and called on the local community to stand in solidarity with those affected. The nocturnal blaze turned 46 shops including restaurants into heaps of rubble. Speaking to Rising Kashmir,
Meanwhile, Hotel Snow Land and Resorts, Sonamarg, has stepped forward to offer free food and accommodation to those impacted by the fire. Additionally, Tata Mobile and JCB services have been mobilised to assist in the recovery efforts.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over fire safety preparedness in the popular tourist destination. Stakeholders are now urging authorities to implement strict fire safety protocols, improve emergency response infrastructure and provide financial aid to help affected traders rebuild their businesses. As the affected community struggles to come to terms with their losses, there are growing calls for swift government intervention to provide immediate relief and long-term support, ensuring Sonamarg’s tourism industry recovers from this setback. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir V K Bidhuri has announced that two fire tenders will remain stationed at Sonamarg till a full-fledged fire service station comes up in the area.
