SRINAGAR: A fire broke out in Bagtore village of Gurez, Bandipora, on Friday evening, destroying a double-storey wooden house and damaging another nearby structure. Swift action by the Army’s Rana Battalion and local residents prevented further destruction, though one residential house suffered extensive damage.
The fire, suspected to have originated from a traditional wooden bukhari (heater), spread rapidly, causing panic among the villagers. The affected house belongs to Abid Ahmad Lone, son of Mohd Ramzan Lone, a resident of Gulshanpora, Bagtore. While the exact cause of the blaze is yet to be confirmed, no casualties were reported.
The Army, stationed in the area, led efforts to contain the flames and secure nearby properties. Their timely intervention was widely praised by locals. “The Army’s quick response saved our homes from complete destruction,” said Zaheer Ahmed, a resident.
However, challenges arose when a fire tender was delayed due to a roadblock near the NHPC dam site. NHPC authorities deployed a JCB to clear the path, enabling the fire tender to reach the location and assist in extinguishing the blaze.
Police teams also arrived at the scene to support rescue operations. The incident highlights the vulnerability of wooden houses in the region and the importance of coordinated emergency responses in remote areas like Gurez.
