Srinagar, Feb 5: A massive fire broke out early Thursday in the Bhagyas area of Chattabal, Srinagar, completely gutting at least 10 residential houses, officials said.

The State Fire Control Room, Batamaloo, received a distress call at 6:31 am, and the first fire tender was dispatched within a minute from Safakadal. Due to the congested layout, additional fire tenders from Syed Hameed Pora, Maharaj Gunj, and Babdemb were deployed to contain the rapidly spreading flames.
Firefighters found three to four houses already ablaze upon arrival. The situation worsened after two to three LPG cylinders exploded, causing the fire to spread to adjoining houses. Sustained efforts eventually brought the blaze under control, with cooling operations ongoing to prevent re-ignition.
The operation was led by Incharge Fire Station Safakadal Aadil Zargar, coordinated with divisional fire officers under Deputy Director Dr. Mir Aqib Hussain and Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah. ADGP Fire and Emergency Services Alok Kumar urged the public to exercise caution, especially at night, and avoid leaving electrical equipment unattended.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, and no injuries or casualties were reported.