SRINAGAR : A devastating fire engulfed several houseboats in the heart of Dal Lake, Srinagar’s popular tourist hub, on Saturday morning. The blaze resulted in the loss of three lives and turned properties valued at crores into ashes. The fire, which erupted near Ghat number 9 around 5:15 am, also destroyed at least five houseboats and three huts.
Officials confirmed that the fire has been successfully brought under control, and efforts are underway to determine its exact cause.
“The fire emerged at around 5:15 am, and as soon as I received the call, we came here. Some 5-8 houseboats and huts were gutted in the fire. We are identifying the source of the fire,” stated a Station House Officer from the Department of Fire Service.
A prompt rescue operation was initiated, with reinforcements called in from headquarters. “The situation is under control. There were five houseboats and eight huts. We have rescued tourists also,” added the officer.
Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Ajaz Asad, along with officials from the Tourism department, visited the fire site to assess the damage. They assured houseboat owners that rebuilding efforts would be a top priority. Furthermore, plans are in place to provide adequate timber for reconstruction, and a special committee will be established to expedite necessary proceedings.
“After the fire incident, swift action by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) ensured the rapid rescue of tourists and other people within the affected structures. As a precautionary measure, four other houseboats neighboring the fire site were relocated to prevent additional damage,” affirmed Asad.
He reiterated the administration’s dedication to assisting the victims and announced that considering the approaching winter season, arrangements would promptly be made to support those impacted by this unfortunate event.