Examiner Bureau | Poonch:
A devastating fire broke out in the Bufliaz area of Surankote tehsil in Poonch district early Saturday morning, reducing 13 shops to ashes and causing losses estimated to be worth crores of rupees.
According to police officials, the blaze originated in one of the shops due to an electrical short circuit and rapidly spread through the market, engulfing a total of 13 shops. Despite prompt efforts by local residents, Army personnel, police teams, and Fire & Emergency Services staff to contain the fire, the intensity of the flames led to the complete destruction of all the affected establishments.
Local residents alleged that the Fire & Emergency Services vehicle arrived late at the scene, which they claim contributed to the extensive damage and financial losses suffered by shop owners.
Station House Officer (SHO) Surankote, Syed Abid Bukhari, confirmed that 13 shops were completely gutted in the incident. He said that preliminary investigations indicate the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit.
The SHO further stated that the administration stands firmly with the affected families and assured that all possible assistance and support would be extended to them.
