By: Afaq Bhat
Srinagar: During the past two days as many as 34 structures have been gutted in fire incidents in Srinagar City evoking concern among the people.
On Tuesday night at least nine shops and a residential house were damaged in twin fire incidents at Gadyar area of Zaina Kadal and Rajouri Kadal areas of Srinagar’s old city.
On Wednesday night 25 structures including 10 single-storey, nine double –storey and one three-story houses were damaged in the blaze at Gata Colony in Noorbagh area of Srinagar city.
Locals said that firemen arrived at both the spots on time and tried their best to douse the flames but by the time fire could be controlled the damage had already been done. “We have no complaints with the personnel of the Fire and Emergency Services Department but it seems that their equipment has become outdated,” said a resident of Noorbagh.
He said, “Another reason for so many structures getting damaged is that these houses and shops were very close to each other. Whatever said and done the F&ES Department should revisit its fire fighting measures. The department also needs to create awareness among the people about the precautions they need to take about preventing such disasters.”
A social worker said that the Disaster Management Department has to lead from the front as such incidents render families homeless and devastated. “The Disaster Management Department should put proper mechanisms in place to rehabilitate the fire victims and provide them with all the basic necessities when they are in distress.”
Soon after the unfortunate fire incidents, Srinagar administration swung into action and provided immediate relief to the fire victims. They were provided blankets, mattresses, quilts, bed sheets and kitchen sets. They were also given cash assistance. “More than anything else these victims need solace, sympathy and assurance that they will be rehabilitated and they need not worry. The houses of these fire victims should be reconstructed on the fast track basis so that they don’t have to live in makeshift accommodations for a longtime,” the social worker added.
An official said that the losses are being assessed and the fire victims will be provided with all the possible help without any delay. He urged people to take all precautionary measures while handling electric/electronic gadgets, LPG cylinders and other appliances to avoid fire incidents.
