The relief, arranged through the Red Cross Society, will provide Rs 1 lakh each to the affected shopkeepers, with Rs 11 lakh earmarked for those affected at Warehouse-Nehru Market and Rs 27 lakh for victims at Shiv Market.
Sinha made the announcement during his visit to both markets to assess the damage caused by the fires. He interacted with affected traders and members of the business community and reviewed the extent of the losses with senior officials.
A fire had damaged multiple shops at Shiv Market on October 25, while godowns at Warehouse-Nehru Market were gutted in a separate incident on Diwali.
Explaining the relief arrangement, the Lieutenant Governor said he did not have any relief funds at his disposal but, in his capacity as President of the Red Cross Society, had requested the organisation to extend assistance to the affected traders.
He said the Red Cross had arranged cheques of Rs 1 lakh each, describing it as the maximum assistance permissible under its rules.
Acknowledging that the amount was limited compared to the losses suffered by traders, Sinha said the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, and Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, were making efforts to ensure that the affected shopkeepers received their insurance claims at the earliest.
He directed officials to expedite the damage assessment process and ensure timely relief to all affected traders. He also stressed the need to review and strengthen fire safety arrangements in major commercial areas to prevent similar incidents.
Assuring the business community of administrative support, the Lieutenant Governor said the administration would extend all possible assistance to help traders rebuild their businesses.
Inquiry committee given 15 days
Meanwhile, Sinha said an inquiry committee comprising the Inspector General of Police, Jammu, and the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, had been constituted to ascertain the cause and circumstances of the fire at Warehouse-Nehru Market.
The committee has been directed to investigate possible lapses or negligence, fix responsibility and submit its report within 15 days.
The Lieutenant Governor said the inquiry would be impartial and warned that strict action would be taken if any negligence was established.
