5 shops gutted in Batamaloo blaze

Srinagar, Dec 9: At least five shops were gutted in a midnight blaze at Batamaloo area here.

An official of the Fire and Emergency department said the fire started from one of the shops due to a short circuit and engulfed adjoining areas.

He said that at least five fire tenders from Headquarters were rushed to the spot. Officials said the fire was brought under control, and property worth lakhs of rupees was saved due to timely action.

Meanwhile, Kashmir Trade Association (KTA) has sought rehabilitation measures for six shopkeepers whose properties were gutted in the incident.

President of KTA, Aijaz Shahdhar, urged the administration to step in and provide compensation for the affected shopkeepers. Shahdhar highlighted the dire need for swift action to assist those who have suffered losses due to the fire incident.

“KTA is actively engaging with the authorities to ensure that the affected individuals receive adequate support in terms of rehabilitation and financial assistance. The call for compensation resonates as a crucial step in helping these shopkeepers recover from the unexpected setback,” he added.