SRINAGAR — A massive fire broke out around 2:30 AM in the Karfali Mohalla area of Habba Kadal, Srinagar, gutting nine residential houses and one godown, and leaving multiple families homeless.
The blaze, which reportedly started from the godown, spread swiftly through the densely packed locality. Fire tenders from the nearest station and the headquarters were rushed to the spot to control the flames.
“Despite hours of intense firefighting, the fire reduced nine houses and a godown to ashes, while several adjoining structures suffered partial damage. The operation was hampered by the narrow lanes and congested housing typical of old Srinagar neighbourhoods,” an official told news agency KNO.
“It was a night of cries and chaos,” said Sahil, a resident of Karfali Mohalla. “Flames rose so high that the entire area looked like it was lit up by fire. People were screaming, running to save their families and whatever belongings they could.”
Another local said he watched homes burn helplessly. “We tried to throw water and save things, but the fire was too strong. Everything we built over years turned to ashes within minutes,” he said.
Meanwhile, though no loss of life was reported, household goods, cash, and important documents were completely destroyed. The cause of the fire is being investigated. — (KNO)