SRINAGAR: A devastating fire swept through the remote hamlet of Mulwarwan in Kishtwar’s Warwan tehsil, leaving 68 families homeless and destroying around 40 houses. The blaze, which tore through this picturesque high-altitude village nestled in the mountains between Kishtwar and Kashmir, consumed not only homes but also household items, leaving families with little more than the clothes on their backs. Early estimates suggest that rebuilding efforts will require at least Rs 5 crore (Rs 50 million), a daunting figure for the affected community.
Despite the extensive property damage, there were no casualties. Fire tenders from Kokernag, Anantnag, along with local administration officials and civilians, worked tirelessly to douse the flames. However, the rugged terrain and limited access to this remote village posed significant challenges for the rescue operation.
Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Rajesh Kumar Shavan, rushed to the scene with his team to personally oversee the rescue and relief efforts. “The rescue teams are working around the clock, and the Divisional Administration has been fully briefed on the situation,” said the DC, confirming that no lives were lost.
Under his direction, immediate relief measures were set into motion. Essential relief materials, including 40 mattresses, 40 bed-sheets, 40 pillows, 40 buckets, 48 jugs, 40 soap cases, 40 water coolers, 40 blankets, 150 glasses, 25 kitchen sets, and 35 tents, were dispatched to the affected families. Additionally, Rs 5 lakh has been released from the Red Cross to provide immediate financial assistance.
While the government and local administration are doing their part, the sheer scale of the destruction calls for far more extensive rebuilding efforts. The fire has left the residents of Mulwarwan facing the grim reality of enduring freezing temperatures and harsh winter conditions without proper shelter. As families grapple with the loss of their homes and belongings, the urgent need for coordinated relief becomes evident.
Humanitarian groups like Ababeel have already stepped in, emphasising the need for swift, united action. Ababeel, which has long been active in humanitarian work across the Chinab Valley, has issued a heartfelt plea for support, estimating that Rs 5 crore will be required to rebuild the village and restore normalcy to the lives of the displaced families.
Karvaan, a local relief organisation, is set to lead the rebuilding efforts, with a focus on pooling resources from across the region. “This tragedy goes beyond financial losses; it’s about restoring hope and dignity to those who have lost everything,” said a representative from Ababeel.
As winter fast approaches, the need for donations and aid becomes more urgent. It is a time for communities to come together, to ensure that these families can rebuild their lives before the harsh winter makes recovery even more difficult. The fire has tested the resilience of Mulwarwan, but with the support of the broader community, there is hope that this mountain village can rise from the ashes.
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