𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐬, 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐥

Bandipora, May 19: A major fire erupted late Sunday night in the main market of Sumbal in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district, destroying at least 12 shops and four residential houses, officials confirmed Monday.

Fire engines from Sumbal and Naidkhai rushed to the scene, with help from local residents and Jammu and Kashmir Police. As the fire grew, reinforcements arrived from Safapora and Batwina fire stations.

After hours of firefighting, the blaze was finally controlled. Quick action saved assets worth crores, but property worth several lakhs was lost.

The homes affected belonged to Bashir Ahmad Wani, Abdul Hameed Wani, Abdul Hameed Khanday, and Nazir Ahmad Khanday, all residents of Sumbal.

Officials are yet to determine the fire’s cause. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Police have started an investigation.

Nazir Ahmad Reshi, President of the Trade Federation Sumbal, expressed sorrow over the incident and offered support to the affected families and shopkeepers. He urged the Bandipora District Administration to provide prompt relief and compensation to those impacted.