Srinagar, Oct 25 : A major fire broke out at Mir Sales Corporation, Kaka Sarai, Karan Nagar, Srinagar, during the intervening night of 24-25 October 2026, causing extensive damage to commercial and adjoining residential-cum-commercial structures.
Alok Kumar, Director, Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES), Jammu & Kashmir, appreciated the prompt, courageous and coordinated response of the department’s personnel, whose sustained efforts helped confine the fire to the affected premises, prevent its further spread to nearby structures and safeguard the adjoining six-storeyed Medicare Hospital from direct fire damage.
Considering the intensity of the blaze and the risk of its spreading to adjoining buildings, a large-scale firefighting operation was launched, involving approximately 12 fire stations and 20 fire tenders. The fire was brought under control at around 5:30 AM on 25 October 2026, following nearly seven hours of sustained firefighting operations.
The operation was conducted under the close supervision and guidance of Director F&ES, Alok Kumar and was led on the ground by Deputy Director, F&ES Command Srinagar, Dr. Aqib Hussain Mir. Firefighting resources were mobilised from F&ES Headquarters and various stations across Srinagar and adjoining areas.
The fire engulfed four structures used for commercial purposes and a large iron shed containing furnishing materials, polythene, tarpaulins and other combustible items. Despite the challenging conditions and the presence of highly inflammable materials, the firefighting teams worked relentlessly to contain the blaze and minimise further damage to the surrounding properties.
Giving the highest priority to human safety, Fire & Emergency Services personnel, in coordination with J&K Police, SDRF and other responding agencies, undertook the precautionary evacuation of patients from Medicare Hospital. All patients were safely evacuated. The timely intervention and coordinated efforts of the responding agencies helped safeguard vulnerable patients and protect the adjoining hospital and nearby structures from a potentially more serious incident.
Alok Kumar appreciated the officers and personnel for their professionalism, courage, teamwork and sustained efforts throughout the night. He particularly commended their effective firefighting operations, successful evacuation of hospital patients and determined efforts to prevent the further spread of fire to adjoining properties.
The Director reiterated the department’s commitment to providing prompt and effective emergency services and safeguarding human lives and property across Jammu & Kashmir. He also acknowledged the cooperation extended by J&K Police, SDRF and other agencies in the successful management of the incident.
The operation reflects the dedication and commitment of Fire & Emergency Services personnel to their motto: “We Serve to Save.”(KNS)
