A devastating fire engulfed the main market area of Sumbal in Bandipora district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday, reducing at least 20 shops and around five residential houses to ashes. 

According to Kashmir Media Service, as per reports, soon after the fire broke out, fire tenders from Sumbal and Naidkhai, along with police and residents, launched a joint operation to contain the blaze. Despite prompt efforts, the fire rapidly spread, prompting reinforcement from Safapora and Batwina fire stations.

After hours of intense firefighting, the flames were finally brought under control. The cause of the fire remains unknown. No casualties or injuries were reported.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)