Baramulla, Jan 2: Tangmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district is in mourning after a devastating fire engulfed a residential tin shed, which claimed the lives of two minor siblings. The tragedy sparked outrage over alleged negligence by authorities in addressing the family’s repeated pleas for housing assistance.
Officials said that the fire incident occurred at Ferozpora village in Tangmarg on Thursday, engulfing the residential tin shed. Despite rescue efforts from the neighbours and fire and emergency service personnel, the lives of minor siblings could not be saved.
The victims were identified as Mina Ashraf, a 4-year-old girl and a 3-month-old Muntazir Ashraf — the children of Mohammad Ashraf Dar.
As per the locals, the family had been living in the tin shed due to financial constraints and alleged negligence in securing housing assistance under the government’s Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY), a scheme for underprivileged families.
“This is a tragedy that should never have happened,” said Abdul Qayoom Wani, chairman of the Jammu Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF). He criticised the administration for ignoring the family’s repeated applications for proper housing and called for a time-bound investigation into the matter.
The tragic loss sparked widespread grief and outrage across the valley.
Meanwhile, Tehsildar Tangmarg, Eyaad Qadri expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident. He termed the incident as “heartwrenching and unfortunate”. “We are investigating the incident and the cause of the fire is being ascertained,” he said.
Tehsildar assured that the family will be provided the necessary assistance. “They will be rehabilitated in a nearby building,” he said, extending sympathies and condolences to the bereaved family.
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