Srinagar, Nov 11(KNS): A massive fire engulfed five houseboats near Ghat No. 10 of Dal Lake, along with an equal number of residential structures in central Kashmir's Srinagar district on Saturday.
An official said that Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES) officials promptly responded to the emergency, extinguishing the flames. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, he said.
Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Ajaz Asad and officials from the Tourism department visited the site of the fire in Dal Lake to assess the damage.
They assured houseboat owners that the matter of rebuilding the houseboats would be given priority attention.
Also, the provision of adequate timber for reconstruction will be addressed, and a special committee will be established to expedite the necessary proceedings.
"After the fire incident, swift action by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) ensured the rapid rescue of tourists and other people within the affected structures. As a precautionary measure, four other houseboats neighboring the fire site were relocated to prevent additional damage," said the DC Srinagar.
He added that the administration is dedicated to providing assistance to the victims. In light of the approaching winter season, necessary arrangements will be promptly made to support those impacted by this unfortunate event.(KNS).