Fire ravages wood-based industrial unit at Baghi Ali Mardan Khan

Srinagar, Dec 29: The Kashmir Small Scale Industrial Association (KSSIA) has expressed deep regret over the loss of a prestigious wood-based industrial unit destroyed by fire at the industrial estate Baghi Ali Mardan Khan.

The renowned Ess Que Furniture Works, administered by Syed Sajad Ahmad Qalander and known for manufacturing high-end furniture and wooden artifacts, was engulfed in flames during the night of December 28-29, 2024. The fire completely destroyed the building, raw materials, and finished goods while extensively damaging the plant and machinery. The full extent of monetary losses is still under investigation.

KSSIA, Baghi Ali Mardan Khan Srinagar has expressed heartfelt sympathy and support to Syed Sajad Qalandar and other members of Ess Que Group during this crisis.

The Association commended the swift response of the Fire and Emergency Department, whose prompt actions prevented damage to neighboring units. They also praised the Police Department, led by SHO Lalbazaar Ashfaq Ahmad, for ensuring safety and security at the scene. General Manager SICOP Waseem Dev and officials visited the site on Sunday to express solidarity.

The Advisory Committee FCIK, led by Shahid Kamili, along with presidents of various industrial estates and associations across the Kashmir Valley, have shown solidarity following the incident. KSSIA has urged the Advisory Committee to pursue their proposal for infrastructure audit of industrial estates across the valley with the Chief Minister, emphasizing the need for firefighting systems and other infrastructural improvements.

KSSIA President Syed Fazal Illahi, accompanied by office bearers and members Shabir Ahmad, Haamid Chashoo, Aqib Gulzar, Manzoor Ahmad, and others, remained at the site until dawn to oversee firefighting efforts.