Massive fire engulfs Sonamarg market in Kashmir, fire tenders from several areas rushed to spot

Sources say the fire appears to have started from a hotel in the market on Saturday evening and spread in no time. A detailed investigation, though, is pending.

As the fire service department was informed, they rushed fire tenders from Gund village and Kangan to douse the flames. As the blaze didn’t come under control, more fire tenders were sent from Ganderbal and Srinagar.

Sources say the fire first spread across the second story of the market and then to the ground floor. They say that 20 commercial establishments were severely damaged on the first floor, while around a dozen shops on the ground floor were partially damaged.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed solidarity with those who lost their properties and assured full government support. “Deeply saddened by the devastating fire incident in the Sonamarg market. My office is in constant touch with the local administration to ensure all possible assistance reaches those in need. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and businesses. In this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with you and will do everything possible to support your recovery,” he said.