𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐬, 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐥

A major fire broke out overnight in the main market of Sumbal, located in Bandipora district of North Kashmir, destroying at least 12 shops and four homes, officials reported.

According to an official, fire engines from Sumbal and Naidkhai, along with Jammu and Kashmir Police and local residents, quickly launched a rescue operation to control the fire.

Despite their swift response, the fire spread rapidly, requiring additional support from the Safapora and Batwina fire stations.

After hours of intense firefighting, the blaze was finally contained.

While property worth crores was saved, damages amounting to lakhs were reported.

The destroyed houses belonged to residents Bashir Ahmad Wani, Abdul Hameed Wani, Abdul Hameed Khanday, and Nazir Ahmad Khanday, all from Sumbal.

Officials said the cause of the fire remains unknown. Thankfully, no injuries or casualties were reported. Police have registered a case and started an investigation.

Meanwhile, Nazir Ahmad Reshi, President of the Sumbal Trade Federation, expressed sorrow over the incident and stood in solidarity with the affected families. He called on the Bandipora District Administration to provide immediate relief and compensation to the victims.