Srinagar: A massive fire broke out in Jammu and Kashmir’s Gurez sector on Saturday, injuring over 20 people and damaging more than two dozen structures, officials said.
The blaze started in a house in Kashpot village of Tulail area, Bandipora district, and quickly spread to nearby wooden structures. In total, 27 buildings, including houses, cowsheds and an Anganwadi centre, were damaged.
Fire and Emergency Services, along with police, managed to control the flames. However, 23 people—including the Tulail Station House Officer (SHO)—were injured during the operation. The injured were shifted to a hospital in Dawar, while the SHO was referred to Bandipora district hospital for advanced treatment.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed grief over the incident, assuring MLA Gurez Nazir Ahmad Khan of full government support.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah also voiced anguish over the tragedy, describing it as “heart-wrenching” for the people of Gurez, who have lost homes, agricultural assets and vital infrastructure. He urged the administration to immediately provide relief, including compensation and temporary shelters, to the affected families.
