Famed tourist destination of Kashmir, Pahalgam, on Sunday evening witnessed a major fire engulfing doxens of hotels and shops mainly built out of wood.
According to preliminary reports, a fire, the source of which is still being ascertained by the police, emanated for a hotel in the main market of Pahalgam. The flames billowing out of the hotel spread to nearby shops.
The fire spread panic among the locals and visitors, who were camping there. According to state officials, the damage is being assessed and the cause of fire is being ascertained.
Initial reports suggest the tourist reception centre too was damaged in the fire. Fire tankers and locals were still busy dousing the flames when this report was filed. There were no reports of any casualty.
{{/usCountry}}Initial reports suggest the tourist reception centre too was damaged in the fire. Fire tankers and locals were still busy dousing the flames when this report was filed. There were no reports of any casualty.
{{/usCountry}}Chief minister Omar Abdullah has tweeted on the incident. "A fire has broken out in Pahalgam & has engulfed the Tourist Reception Centre & Hotel Poornima. I've been told both buildings evacuated (sic)," tweeted Abdullah.
"Fire brigade on the scene but strong winds have increased the risk of the fire spreading. The situation is being monitored & tackled (sic)" he said in another tweet.
The Pahalgam market first became famous when actor Rajesh Khanna starring 'Roti' movie was shot here.