Fire damages 3 residential houses in north Kashmir’s Uri

Srinagar, Jan 16: A fire incident caused extensive damage to residential property in the Dawaran area of Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, leaving one house badly gutted and partially damaging two adjoining structures.

Local sources said that the fire broke out in a residential cluster in Dawaran, leading to panic among inhabitants. Due to road blockage on the Uri–Baramulla highway following a landslide, initial firefighting efforts faced difficulties in reaching the spot, resulting in delays, as per KNT.

Three residential houses were affected in the incident. One of the houses suffered severe damage, with complete loss of bedding, furnishings, household items and kitchenware. Materials stored in the adjoining shed, including a welding machine and two water pumps, were also destroyed in the blaze.

The adjacent houses sustained partial damage, mainly to doors and windows, locals said. The cause of the fire is suspected to be an electrical short circuit. However, officials said an investigation has been initiated to ascertain the exact cause. No loss of life or injuries were reported in the incident.

When contacted, an official from Fire and Emergency Department said the Fire Station Uri was initially mobilised but was forced to return due to blockage on the Uri–Baramulla highway caused by a landslide. Subsequently, Fire Station Boniyar was pressed into service, though road conditions caused a delay between call receipt and arrival at the spot. He confirmed that three structures were gutted, one of which suffered extensive damage.