Poonch, June 7: At least 13 shops were damaged after a massive fire broke out in the busy Bufliaz market area of Poonch district on Sunday, causing extensive damage to commercial establishments and triggering panic among traders and local residents.
Eyewitnesses said flames erupted from one of the shops and quickly spread to adjoining structures, engulfing a row of commercial establishments within a short span of time.
Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the market as locals, police personnel and emergency responders rushed to the spot to contain the blaze.
Officials said firefighting teams launched an operation to prevent the fire from spreading further to nearby structures. The blaze was eventually brought under control after strenuous efforts by firefighters and local volunteers.
Preliminary reports indicate that 13 shops sustained damage in the incident, though the exact extent of losses is yet to be assessed.
Shopkeepers said the fire destroyed goods, inventories and business establishments, resulting in substantial financial losses.
“There was panic in the market as the flames spread rapidly from one shop to another,” an eyewitness said.
No loss of human life or serious injuries were immediately reported in the incident.
Authorities have initiated an assessment of the damage, while the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Local traders have appealed to the administration for compensation and assistance to affected shopkeepers who suffered losses in the blaze. [KNT]
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