Massive Fire Gutts 40 Shops at Shiv Market Jammu
A devastating fire broke out at Shiv Market opposite Jammu Railway Station, destroying nearly 40 shops. Read more about the incident and damage.
A devastating blaze ripped through the heart of one of Jammu's busiest commercial hubs in the early hours of Monday, leaving a trail of destruction at the Shiv Market Jammu fire. Located directly opposite the Jammu Railway Station, the massive inferno engulfed numerous establishments, turning a thriving marketplace into a scene of chaos and ash.
The Spark That Triggered Chaos
According to BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa, who visited the site to assess the situation, the tragedy reportedly began with a short circuit in a single shop. Due to the nature of the goods stored in the market, the flames spread with terrifying speed, leaping from one storefront to another before emergency services could contain the spread.
The market is well-known for its variety of businesses, including eateries, dhabas, and shops specializing in blankets and dry fruits—materials that likely acted as fuel, accelerating the intensity of the fire.
Extent of the Destruction
The scale of the loss is staggering. MLA Randhawa estimated that between 35 to 40 shops have been completely gutted. He noted that by the time the fire brigade arrived on the scene, the flames had already consumed a significant portion of the market.
"It started with a short circuit in one shop, and the fire spread rapidly, engulfing surrounding shops. By the time the fire brigade arrived, the entire market had been consumed by the flames. In my estimation, about 35 to 40 shops have been completely gutted," Randhawa stated.
Officials have clarified that a precise assessment of the financial and structural damage can only be conducted once the site is fully secured and the situation is brought completely under control.
Administration and Community Response
The site saw a heavy presence of senior officials as they worked to manage the aftermath. The Deputy Commissioner (DC), Superintendent of Police (SP) South, DSP, and the SHO, along with their respective teams, were present to oversee the operations.
In addition to the government machinery, members of civil society stepped forward to provide necessary assistance. It was reported that the affected shopkeepers have been cooperating fully with the administration during this crisis.
The Question of Compensation
With many small business owners losing their entire livelihoods in a matter of hours, the focus has now shifted toward recovery. While the immediate priority was extinguishing the blaze, MLA Randhawa assured that the issue of compensation would be addressed.
He emphasized that the damage is on a "massive scale" and confirmed that discussions with the administration regarding financial aid for the victims will take place in the coming days.