Srinagar, Dec 26 (JKNS): A fire broke out late Thursday night at the CRPF barracks and store rooms, deployed near the Banquet Hall in Srinagar.
An official from fire and emergency service department told news agency JKNS, The incident, reported at around 11:39 PM, was brought under control following a swift response by the Fire and Emergency Services.
Officials said, the fire call was received at the State Fire Headquarters Control Room at 11:39 PM, after which a fire tender from Fire Station Gowkadal was immediately dispatched to the spot. Simultaneously, additional fire tenders from Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) Headquarters were rushed to assist.
On reaching the site, firefighters found a single-storey concrete CRPF barrack along with adjoining store rooms fully engulfed in flames. Firefighting operations were launched without delay.
Considering the close proximity of the affected structure to a nearby church, two additional water boozers from F&ES Headquarters were pressed into service to prevent the spread of the fire, they said.
After sustained and intense firefighting efforts, the blaze was successfully brought under control. However, the CRPF barracks suffered extensive damage. Cooling operations were continuing to rule out any possibility of re-ignition.
The firefighting operation was led by DFO Headquarters Muzaffar Ali Bhat under the supervision of Deputy Director Dr Mir Aqib Hussain, while Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah coordinated the on-ground response.
As per preliminary assessment, the cause of the fire is suspected to be a short circuit. Meanwhile, Commandant of 75 Battalion CRPF, Paul Singh Siwal, appreciated the Fire and Emergency Services personnel for their prompt response, professionalism and bravery during the operation.
Further investigation into the incident is underway. (JKNS)
