SRINAGAR — Two scrap collectors from Delhi were charred to death after a devastating fire swept through a cluster of temporary shelters in the Durbal area of Bemina, on the outskirts of Srinagar, during the intervening night, reducing at least 80 makeshift structures, most of them used by scrap dealers, to ashes.
The deceased have been identified as 27-year-old Muhammad Noor Aalam and 16-year-old Muhammad Ameen Rafi, both residents of Delhi who were engaged in scrap collection and had been staying in the area.
According to details, the fire broke out in the cluster of temporary shelters and rapidly spread to adjoining structures, leaving little opportunity to contain the flames before they engulfed a large portion of the settlement. Most of the affected shelters were reportedly being used by scrap dealers for their work and accommodation.
As the blaze intensified, police personnel, Fire and Emergency Services teams and local residents rushed to the spot and joined efforts to douse the flames. Firefighters worked to bring the situation under control while locals assisted in the firefighting operation.
However, despite the joint efforts, the fire caused extensive destruction, gutting at least 80 temporary shelters and leaving two people dead. The loss of property is reported to be substantial, although the exact extent of the damage is yet to be assessed.
The cause of the fire was not immediately known. Police have taken note of the incident, while further details regarding the circumstances leading to the outbreak of the blaze and the assessment of losses are awaited.
