Srinagar,Dec 26: A fire broke out late Thursday night at a single-storey barracks and adjoining store rooms of the Central Reserve Police Force deployed near Banquet Hall in Srinagar, officials said.
According to the Fire and Emergency Services, the fire incident occurred at around midnight. at the barracks of 246 Battalion CRPF.
Fire tenders from Fire and Emergency Services Headquarters Batamaloo and Gawkadal were rushed to the spot. Upon arrival, firefighters found that the single-storey concrete barrack and adjoining store rooms were fully engulfed in flames, prompting immediate firefighting operations.
Officials said that considering the close proximity of the affected structure to a nearby church, extra reinforcement in the form of two water boozers from the Fire and Emergency Services Headquarters was deployed to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures.
After sustained firefighting efforts, the blaze was brought under control. However, the CRPF barracks suffered extensive damage.
The firefighting operation was led by DFO Headquarters Muzaffar Ali Bhat under the supervision of Deputy Director Mir Aqib Hussain, with Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah coordinating the overall response.
Preliminary assessment suggests that the fire may have been caused by a short circuit, though officials said the exact cause would be ascertained after a detailed investigation.
Meanwhile, Paul Singh Siwal, Commandant of 75 Battalion CRPF, appreciated the Fire and Emergency Services personnel for their prompt response and professionalism during the operation.
No injuries were reported in the incident, and further investigation is underway.
