FCIK expresses sorrow over loss of industrial units in fire incidents

Srinagar, Nov 02: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating loss of two industrial units in the Sanat Nagar and Lassipora estates. The Chamber resolved to stand in solidarity with the owners, acknowledging their substantial financial setbacks and emphasizing the need for resilience during these challenging times.

On Friday evening, M/s Northern Steel Industry, owned by Mohammed Altaf, suffered extensive damage from a fire that reportedly ignited due to firecrackers during Diwali celebrations. The blaze destroyed the entire roofing and severely impacted the plant and machinery used for manufacturing steel tubular poles and other fabricated products.

Tragedy struck again on Saturday morning when M/s Alkaram Polymers, owned by Irshad Ahmad Shah, was completely engulfed in flames at the Industrial Growth Centre in Lassipora. This state-of-the-art facility installed to producing expanded polyethylene foam and insulated blow molding water storage tanks was devastated by the fire.

The estimated financial impact of these incidents is in the crores of rupees, posing substantial challenges not only to the owners but also to the broader industrial community. In response, businesses across the valley have expressed their regret and solidarity with those affected.

The President and Advisory Committee members of FCIK visited the Northern Steel Industry on Saturday to offer support to Mohammed Altaf. They also coordinated with Irshad Ahmad Shah during the crisis, working diligently to help extinguish the flames. Recognizing the inadequacies of conventional water extinguishers in petrochemical incidents, they approached Chief Minister’s office, particularly Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani for arranging foam extinguishers.

Mukhtar Ahmad Khan, President of the Industrial Growth Centre Lassipora, along with his team, actively coordinated fire-fighting efforts on-site. Mukhtar commended the Fire Services Department for their hard work and acknowledged the support of the 44 RR forces, who provided additional extinguishers and water to help combat the blaze.

The FCIK calls upon all estate based associations, government agencies, and community members to help and support in recovery and rebuilding initiatives of affected units.

"Together, we can fortify our industrial base and ensure that such tragedies do not impede our growth and development", stated President FCIK Shahid Kamili.

He emphasized the need for unity to show dedication to supporting each other and building resilience within our community.