Srinagar, Dec 26: A fire broke out late Thursday night at a single-storey barracks and adjoining store rooms of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) near the Banquet Hall area of Srinagar, officials said.
According to Fire and Emergency Services, the incident occurred around midnight at the barracks of 246 Battalion CRPF. Fire tenders from the Fire and Emergency Services Headquarters Batamaloo and Gawkadal were rushed to the spot immediately.
On arrival, firefighters found the concrete barrack and adjoining store rooms fully engulfed in flames. Given the close proximity of the structure to a nearby church, additional reinforcement, including two water boozers from the Fire and Emergency Services Headquarters, was deployed to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings.
After sustained efforts, the blaze was brought under control. However, the CRPF barracks and store rooms suffered extensive damage in the incident.
The firefighting operation was led by DFO Headquarters Muzaffar Ali Bhat under the supervision of Deputy Director Dr Mir Aqib Hussain, with Mobilising Officer Aijaz Ahmad Shah coordinating the response.
Preliminary assessment suggests a short circuit may have caused the fire, though officials said the exact cause will be confirmed after a detailed investigation. A probe has been ordered into the incident.
Meanwhile, Commandant Paul Singh Siwal of 75 Battalion CRPF appreciated the prompt response and professionalism of the Fire and Emergency Services personnel.
No injuries were reported, and further investigation is underway.
