SRINAGAR: A day after a major part of Sonamarg market went up in flames, the key tourist spot is mourning the loss. Hundreds of people visited the highway town to convey sympathies to the traders who lost their livelihoods. The town would usually remain closed for winter, but the opening of the Sonamarg tunnel helped it stay open.
A massive fire broke out in the main market area of Sonamarg tourist resort on Saturday evening, causing extensive damage to commercial establishments, including hotels and shops. The blaze, which reportedly started at Hotel Sounsar, spread rapidly, gutting over 40 structures and raising concerns about the lack of firefighting infrastructure in the area.
Fire tenders from Gund, Kangan, Ganderbal, and Srinagar were rushed to the scene to control the flames. Despite their efforts, around 20 establishments on the first floor were completely destroyed, while nearly a dozen shops on the ground floor sustained partial damage. Fortunately, no casualties were reported due to the swift action of local residents.
The incident has sparked outrage among traders and hoteliers, who have long demanded a dedicated fire station in Sonamarg. Critics, including MLA Kangan Mian Mehar Ali, have held the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) responsible for the lack of preparedness, citing repeated but ignored pleas for establishing a fire station. CEO of SDA, G M Bhat, stated that efforts were underway to secure space for a fire tender in coordination with the Fire Services Department, but formalities had delayed its implementation.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences to those affected, assuring full government support for their recovery. “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,” he said.
Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari also conveyed his grief over the extensive damage and called on authorities to expedite compensation and rehabilitation efforts for the affected traders. “The rehabilitation process must begin soon, and the administration should not waste any time in providing assistance and adequate compensation to the victims so they can rebuild their businesses as quickly as possible,” he stated.
The fire has reignited long-standing demands for improved firefighting infrastructure in Sonamarg, with business owners recalling similar incidents in 2006, 2007, and 2016. Local traders and residents are urging authorities to expedite the establishment of a fire services unit in the area to prevent future disasters and protect livelihoods.
