Poonch: A massive fire broke out at Mandi market in Poonch district during the intervening night of Thursday and Friday, causing extensive damage to a shoe shop and the adjoining Chinar Cafe.
According to initial reports, the blaze originated in the shoe store before spreading to the nearby cafe, damaging goods, equipment and other property. The owners of both establishments, Ghulam Mohammad and Zeeshan, reportedly suffered losses worth lakhs of rupees.
A gas cylinder kept in the cafe’s kitchen also exploded during the fire, triggering a loud blast and causing panic among residents and traders in the area.
On receiving information, teams from Jammu and Kashmir Police, Fire and Emergency Services, along with the Naib Tehsildar and local residents, reached the spot. Firefighters from Mandi and Poonch, assisted by locals, brought the blaze under control after strenuous efforts and prevented it from spreading to other shops.
No loss of life or injuries were reported.
Local traders suspect an electrical short circuit to be the cause of the fire. Police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the exact cause.
The affected shopkeepers and local traders have appealed to the administration to provide financial assistance to help the owners rebuild their businesses.
