Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Oct 23: A fire incident tore through Karfali Mohalla, Habba Kada Srinagar, in the night hours of Wednesday-Thursday, reducing nine homes and one godown to ashes.
For the residents, it was more than a blaze; it was the destruction of memories, dreams and the security of a lifetime.
“It was a night of cries and chaos,” said Sahil, a resident, his voice trembling. He added, flames rose so high, lighting up the entire neighbourhood. People ran screaming, clutching whatever belongings they could grab.
“Some barely escaped with their children in their arms,” Sahil said.
Another resident, whose home was completely destroyed, recalled helplessly: “We tried buckets of water, but the fire was too strong. Everything we had built over decades, our photos, clothes, documents, savings, turned to ashes in minutes. It feels like life itself burned away.”
The fire reportedly started in a godown around 2:30 AM, officials said. They said firefighters rushed from nearby stations and headquarters too but narrow lanes and congested houses typical of old Srinagar slowed the rescue.
By the time flames were under control, nine houses lay in ruins, and families were left homeless in the chilly October night.
Meanwhile, amidst the rubble and cries residents huddled together, sharing clothes, blankets and food salvaged from neighbours. Some cried silently, staring at charred walls where their lives once unfolded. “We have nothing now. Not even a roof over our heads,” one elderly resident said.
Moreover, the tragedy has drawn attention from political and social leaders.
PDP president Mehbooba Mufti tweeted: “First Ganpat Yaar, then Baan Mohalla, and now Karfali Mohalla within less than a month, devastating fires have engulfed the homes of the poorest of the poor. Dozens of families have been left without a roof over their heads in this harsh winter, losing not just shelter but a lifetime of belongings. It’s heartbreaking to see people standing amidst the ashes of what was once their home.”
She appealed to the government to provide urgent financial assistance, along with timber and tin sheets, so these families can rebuild their lives again.”
Officials said investigation have been launched to ascertain the cause of the fire. (KNO)
