A fire broke out in the congested Bandipora market early Thursday, causing multiple shops to be gutted and prompting panic, significant losses, and renewed calls for fire safety measures and compensation for affected traders.
February 26, Bandipora: At least 14 shops were completely destroyed in a massive fire that erupted in the main market of Bandipora early Thursday morning, causing widespread property damage and triggering panic among residents and traders.
The blaze started around dawn and quickly spread to adjacent shops due to the crowded layout of the marketplace. Thick smoke filled the area as flames spread from one building to another, alarming local residents and shopkeepers.
Personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services of J&K rushed to the scene immediately after receiving information and launched an extensive firefighting operation. Teams from the Jammu and Kashmir Police and local volunteers assisted in efforts to contain the fire.
After several hours of sustained operation, the fire was brought under control, preventing it from spreading to nearby residential houses. Witnesses said that a large crowd gathered at the site as firefighters battled the flames, while several shopkeepers attempted to salvage whatever goods they could.
It is feared that crores of rupees worth of property was damaged in the incident, although the exact extent of losses is still being assessed by authorities. Officials confirmed that no casualties or injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is not yet known, and an investigation has been launched to determine the origin of the blaze. The incident has prompted traders to seek compensation and demand improved fire safety measures in the market area.
