Deputy Commissioner Doda Harvinder Singh today visited Upper Puneja village in Bhaderwah to assess the damage caused by a recent fire incident in Karal Mohalla where four residential houses were completely gutted. The DC was accompanied by Tehsildar Bhaderwah, Naib Tehsildar Bhaderwah, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Bhaderwah and AE (PWD).
During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner interacted with the affected families and assured them of all possible administrative support, including relief and compensation as per disaster management norms. The fire which broke out earlier this week rapidly engulfed the closely built structures due to strong winds, destroying houses belonging to Raj Mohammad, Abdul Shakoor, Abdul Qayoom and Jaan Mohammad.
Fortunately, no loss of life was reported. Fire and emergency services, along with local volunteers, made efforts to control the blaze; however, the absence of direct road connectivity posed serious challenges in timely firefighting. Officials informed that the affected area lies nearly 1 km uphill from the nearest motorable road forcing fire service personnel to reach the spot on foot.
This delay significantly contributed to the extent of damage. The district administration is coordinating with concerned departments to provide temporary shelter, essential supplies and medical support to the affected families. Meanwhile, villagers raised concerns regarding the lack of basic infrastructure, particularly road connectivity.
They demanded firewood, timber for roof reconstruction and immediate compensation to affected families. The Deputy Commissioner assured them that their demands would be examined sympathetically and reiterated the administration’s commitment to improving connectivity and emergency access to prevent such incidents in the future.
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