Srinagar, Dec 3, KNT: A fire broke out in the Nowpora area of Khanyar in Srinagar on Wednesday afternoon, damaging at least five residential houses and triggering panic in the densely populated locality.

Officials from the Fire and Emergency Services department said teams were rushed to the spot soon after the incident was reported. Assistant Director Fire and Emergency Services Srinagar, Dr Aqib Hussain Mir, said the blaze was massive but was brought under control in time, preventing it from spreading to adjoining structures.

He praised the role of locals who initially responded by attempting to contain the flames using available resources until fire tenders reached the spot. According to him, the combined effort of firefighters and locals helped avert what could have been a far more devastating incident in the congested neighbourhood.

Although no immediate reports of casualties were received, he said the fire caused extensive damage to household belongings and structures. The exact cause of the fire has not been officially confirmed yet.

Authorities have started an assessment to ascertain the extent of losses suffered by the affected families. A detailed report is expected after a complete evaluation of the damage.

Dr Mir appealed to the public to exercise extra caution while using electrical appliances during the ongoing winter season, noting that increased load on wiring and heating devices significantly raises the risk of fires. He urged people to ensure proper maintenance of electrical fittings and avoid overloading circuits to prevent similar incidents.

Dr Mir also advised people living in congested areas to keep basic fire safety measures in mind and report any fire outbreak without delay to ensure a quick response. [KNT]