Jammu, Nov 12 (KNS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday announced immediate relief of Rs 1 lakh each for shopkeepers affected by recent fires at Warehouse, Nehru Market and Shiv Market in Jammu, and assured strict action if negligence was found behind the incidents.

Sinha visited the affected markets, inspected damaged shops and interacted with traders to assess their losses and grievances.

According to an official statement, Rs 11 lakh has been provided to affected shopkeepers at Warehouse, Nehru Market, and Rs 27 lakh to those at Shiv Market through the Red Cross Society.

The Lieutenant Governor acknowledged that the financial assistance was small compared to the losses suffered by traders.

“I understand that this amount is very small compared to the losses you have endured, but I hope it provides at least some help during this difficult time,” Sinha said.

He said the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner Jammu were making efforts to ensure early settlement of insurance claims of affected shopkeepers.

Sinha directed officials to complete the damage assessment without delay and ensure that relief reached all affected traders.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Referring to the November 8 fire at Warehouse, Nehru Market, the Lieutenant Governor said a two-member inquiry committee had already been constituted to investigate the incident.

The committee, comprising Inspector General Jammu Tejinder Singh and Divisional Commissioner Jammu Vikas Kundal, has been directed to establish the cause of the fire, examine possible lapses and fix responsibility within 15 days.

Sinha said the inquiry would be impartial and warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found responsible for negligence.

He also directed officials to strengthen fire safety measures in major commercial markets to prevent similar incidents.

“The entire UT administration stands with you. I assure the business community of all possible support from the Administration to help you rebuild your business at the earliest,” he said.

DGP Nalin Prabhat, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Vikas Kundal, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Minga Sherpa and other senior officials accompanied the Lieutenant Governor during the visit. (KNS)