Raja Akbar
Nowgam, Oct 09: A devastating fire incident in the Pothwari area of Nowgam in Mawer area of Handwara reduced two residential houses and a shop to ashes on Monday.
The incident resulted in the complete destruction of all belongings within the homes, but a prompt response from the Fire and Emergency Services averted further catastrophe.
Local residents alleged delayed responses from the Fire and Emergency Department despite repeated requests for assistance. However, it was revealed that the department's swift action was prompted by a phone call from the Qalamabad Police Station.
Incharge Officer of the Qalamabad Fire and Emergency Department mentioned receiving the call and immediately rushing to the scene. The fire, fueled by wooden structures, had spread rapidly, necessitating additional support from the Handwara Fire and Emergency Department.
The blaze had affected the shared residential properties of Farooq Ahmed Shah Magal and his brother Shabir Ahmed Shah Magal, sons of Ghulam Haider Shah Magal. With the collaboration of the firefighting team, J&K Police and the Indian Army, the fire threatening surrounding residential areas was successfully brought under control, preventing further devastation.(KNS)