Srinagar: In a troubling trend for the year, more than 115 structures have been damaged by fires in Srinagar, the capital of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The most severe incident occurred last month in Bohri Kadal, where a fire not only destroyed properties worth millions but also consumed a century-old mosque.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the fire department in Srinagar has been stretched with over 300 fire-related calls since January. Data revealed by the department to Kashmir Life indicates a worrying increase in such incidents across the district.

Residential buildings comprise the majority of the structures affected, with 76 houses reported damaged. Commercial facilities have also suffered, with 12 buildings, 5 hotels, 15 electric transformers, 14 other structures, and 16 shops also impacted. An official noted that the frequency of fire incidents this year aligns with previous years, yet emphasized the danger of storing gas cylinders inside buildings, which has been a significant factor in the rapid spread of fires like the one in Bohri Kadal.

This surge in fire incidents underscores the critical need for enhanced fire safety awareness and preventive strategies among residents to help avert future disasters.