 Mohammad Sarfaraz
Early Times Report
KUPWARA, Aug 28: A massive fire has engulfed an army camp in Machil sector along the line of control (LoC) in this north Kashmir district on Tuesday afternoon.
Reports said that huge loss of property including arms and ammunition is feared as the fire continues to rage in army's 45 RR headquarter camp at Hamar Gali in Machil sector.
The fire, believed to be due to a short circuit started at around 1:00 pm and engulfed the camp having in-store oil barrels, huge arms, and ammunition, reports said.
At least three soldiers suffered minor burn injuries in the fire incident, the nearby fire extinguishers were called in to douse the flames, and somehow it was controlled, said sources.
Sources quoting the police officials, some blasts were also heard inside the camp, which is suggestive of the fact that explosives have caught fire and it may take some time to control the flames.
Some barracks have been gutted completely along with the office building, the police official mentioned, sources informed.
Reports also suggest that huge loss is feared in the fire and would be estimated once the flames are brought under control.
The army officials have also confirmed the incident and said that efforts are underway to bring the fire under control.
However sources said that fire tenders from police and army are unable to reach the spot due to high terrains and alternative efforts are being made to douse off the flames.
Meanwhile Srinagar based defence spokesperson, Col Rajesh Kalia confirmed to early times tjat a fire incident took place in Machhal sector at 1400 hours today.
The fire was brought under control. Some damage to property took place. However, there's no loss of life. Cause of fire is being ascertained, said Defence Spokesperson.
Pertinently in the previous year, some army barracks were also engulfed in fire in the same district, due to shot circuits, said sources. |
