7 houses gutted at Chattabal
Srinagar, Feb 5: At least seven houses were gutted in a devastating fire at Bhagyas locality of Chattabal on Thursday rendering several families homeless amid biting cold.
The blaze erupted before sunrise, when most of the residents were asleep. According to officials, the fire spread rapidly through closely packed houses, worsening after LPG cylinders exploded, turning the narrow lanes into a scene of chaos and panic.
“It happened in no time. We woke up to flames and smoke everywhere. There was no chance to save anything. By the time we stepped out, everything was gone,” said a distraught victim, bursting in tears.
As the fire raged on, families ran out of their homes and watched helplessly as their furnishings, carpets, clothes and household items were consumed by flames. Emotional scenes unfolded as women wept, elderly residents were in shock amid the devastation.
Witnesses said that Fire and Emergency Services personnel rushed to the spot and launched a coordinated operation, battling the flames in the congested locality for hours. Local residents also joined the effort, helping firefighters lay hoses, clear passages and rescue whatever little could be salvaged.
An official from the Fire and Emergency Services said the operation was challenging due to the congested nature of the area and the annexed structures. “Several houses were already engulfed when teams reached. The LPG blasts caused the fire to spread quickly. The blaze was eventually brought under control, and cooling operations are underway to prevent re-ignition,” the official said, adding that the cause of the fire is being investigated.
Among the worst hit was Nazir Ahmad, an artisan who earns his livelihood through handmade shawls. Standing near the charred remains of his house, he said the fire had destroyed not just his shelter but also his means of survival.
“I had stored shawls worth thousands of rupees at home. That was my entire livelihood. Everything is finished. I have no way to repay my dues now.” Nazir Ahmad said.
Residents said multiple families had lost everything they owned and were now left with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. “These are poor households. Winter makes it even worse. Immediate relief is needed,” said a local.
Soon after the incident, appeals began circulating on social media, with locals urging authorities to provide immediate assistance and calling upon the public to donate money and essential items to help the affected families survive the harsh days ahead.
Officials reiterated the need for strict adherence to safety precautions, particularly during night hours, and urged residents to follow standard operating procedures to prevent such incidents.
