SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 30 (KNS) : PDP president and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday expressed concern over the devastating fire in Mungli village of Warwan in Kishtwar, saying the incident has once again exposed the vulnerability of residents of the remote valley.

Questioning the government over assurances made after a major fire in the area in October 2024, Mufti asked where the fire stations and fire tenders promised for Warwan and Marwah were nearly two years later.

“Nearly two years ago, fire stations and fire tenders were promised for Warwan and Marwah. Where are those fire tenders today?” she asked.

During his visit to the fire-ravaged area in October 2024, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had announced the establishment of fire stations in Warwan and Marwah, besides an ambulance, after authorities faced considerable difficulty in providing firefighting assistance to the remote area.

“Nearly two years later, another major fire has once again left families vulnerable and the people are still forced to rely on whatever limited means are available locally to contain such emergencies. This raises serious questions about the implementation of the assurances given after the last tragedy,” Mufti said.

She urged the administration to immediately assess the losses caused by the latest fire and release compensation to the affected families without delay to help them rebuild their homes.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

With winter approaching and Warwan facing severe cold and difficult weather conditions, Mufti also called for immediate provision of prefabricated shelters for families who have lost their homes.

“No family that has lost its home should be left exposed to the harsh winter. Temporary shelters must be arranged immediately, along with food, heating and other essential relief,” she said.

The PDP president said the latest fire had once again highlighted the need for a reliable firefighting and emergency response mechanism in Warwan and Marwah.

She said local residents were reportedly compelled to use earth movers to demolish portions of affected structures and create firebreaks in an effort to contain the blaze.

Mufti said the government must explain the status of the fire stations and emergency infrastructure promised in 2024 and ensure that the commitments made to the people are implemented on the ground.

“Warwan cannot be left to fend for itself every time a disaster strikes. The government must provide immediate relief to those affected and, equally importantly, ensure that the promises made after the previous tragedy are finally translated into functioning emergency services,” she said.(KNS)