Officials said the fire broke out in a room of the house, prompting an immediate response from the Fire and Emergency Services. “We received the fire call at 2:25 pm, following which fire tenders from Fire and Emergency Services Gawkadal were rushed to the spot within a minute,” an official from the department said.

“The fire tenders departed at 2:26 pm, ensuring a quick and effective response.” He added.

The official said timely action by the fire personnel prevented the flames from spreading to other portions of the building and nearby structures. “Due to the swift operation, the fire was confined, and the situation was brought fully under control,” he said, adding that no loss of life was reported in the incident.

Officials said that according to the preliminary assessment carried out by the department, the fire appears to have been caused by a short circuit due to haphazard wiring. “The exact cause is being ascertained, but prima facie it seems to be a case of short circuit,” the official said.

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Several commuters said that instead of allowing vehicles to cross directly at the MA Road junction, traffic authorities divert traffic, forcing motorists to take a long turn near the J&K Bank headquarters, which they say is time-consuming and causes massive traffic jams.

“This diversion means we have to cover a longer distance just to reach the same point. Earlier, even if we had to wait for a minute or two at traffic lights, it was far more convenient than taking a long U-turn,” said Irfan Ahmad, a commuter.

According to commuters, the diversion wastes time, particularly during office hours, slowing down traffic as they have to take a long detour.

“During peak hours, it becomes extremely inconvenient,” another commuter said, adding that first-time drivers often get confused due to the sudden diversion.

Commuters have urged the traffic police to review the arrangement and consider operating the junction through traffic lights instead. “We are not against regulation. Even a short stop at traffic lights is acceptable, but this long diversion is inconvenient,” they said.

SSP Traffic Srinagar City Ajaz Ahmad said that allowing vehicles to cross the junction without diversion leads to congestion and creates a bottleneck, causing inconvenience to commuters and long queues of vehicles. He said the diversion is not permanent and is implemented based on real-time traffic assessment.

“We continuously monitor traffic flow and depending on the situation, vehicles are allowed to move without following the diversion,” he said. The SSP added that although commuters have to take a U-turn, traffic movement remains smooth without stoppages. “Traffic plans are reviewed and updated regularly to ensure uninterrupted flow and minimise inconvenience,” he said.

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From Downtown localities to the city’s outskirts, several families are relying on traditional hamams to keep themselves warm— marking a shift away from electricity-driven heating gadgets that have become both expensive and risky.

Hamams are deeply rooted in Kashmir’s architectural and cultural heritage, which are specially designed heating system where the floor is laid with stone slabs that are hollow underneath. A fireplace constructed outside the house is fed with firewood, allowing heat to circulate beneath the flooring and warm the entire space evenly for hours. Once lit, a hamam retains warmth long after the fire has died down, making it one of the most efficient heating systems known to the region.

Historically, hamams were a common feature in masjids and houses of economically well-off families.

“I remember in my childhood, after soiling my clothes in snow, we would go to the hamam in our locality masjid to dry ourselves. Hamans were mainly confined to mosques. And then over time, with the advent of electric heaters, blowers, and other modern gadgets, many households either stopped using hamams or did not include them in new constructions. That trend, however, appears to be reversing,” said Muhammad Ramzan, an octogenarian from Harwan.

Locals said the main reason for this renewed demand for Hamams is the widespread installation of smart electric meters in Srinagar. With most areas now shifted from flat-rate electricity to metered billing, power tariffs have emerged as a major concern for residents.

“Earlier, we had a flat rate, and it was manageable. Now with a smart meter, every unit counts. We did not have a hamam earlier. This year, we converted part of our kitchen area into a hamam,” said Saqib Ahmad, a local from Hazratbal.

The move comes at a time when the Valley has witnessed a worrying rise in fire incidents, many of them linked to faulty wiring and overuse of electrical heating appliances during winter. Officials have repeatedly warned residents about the dangers of using crude and high-load electric gadgets, especially in congested residential areas.

Interestingly, no major fire incidents have been reported due to hammams, a fact locals attribute to the system being time-tested and inherently safer when properly constructed.

Ali Muhammad, a mason from Srinagar, said that “In newly constructed houses, people are now ensuring that there is a separate hammam room. Almost 80 percent of the houses I worked on this year included hamams,” he said.

Many hamams also have copper water containers installed near the heating chamber, ensuring a steady supply of hot water even during prolonged power outages, a common occurrence during harsh winters.

“For us, it is a blessing. When electricity goes out, we still have hot water and a warm room. Children, elders, and everyone sit together here, talk, and spend time. Earlier, everyone used to sit in separate rooms with heaters,” said Shubeena, a homemaker from the New Theed area.

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Officials said that the first incident was reported from SD Colony in Batamaloo area at around 9:41 pm. According to officials, the fire call was received by the State Fire Control Room in Srinagar, after which fire tenders from the Fire and Emergency Services headquarters were dispatched to the spot within a minute.

“When our teams reached the location, they found a three-storey residential house involved in fire, with the second floor and attic portion fully affected,” an official of the Fire and Emergency Services said.

The officials said firefighting operations were initiated immediately, and the flames were prevented from spreading to nearby structures. “The area is highly congested, and we had to press additional fire boozers into service to ensure adequate water supply,” he said.

Officials said that at the preliminary stage, the cause of the fire is suspected to be a short circuit. “A detailed investigation has been initiated to ascertain the exact cause,” the official said, while confirming that no loss of life was reported. Later the same night, another fire incident was reported from the Khanyar area near the Dastgeer Sahib (RA) shrine, where a mutton shop was gutted in a blaze. The fire call in this case was received at around 10:38 pm, officials said.

“Our teams responded promptly and managed to control the fire before it could spread further,” an official said.

Fire and Emergency Services officials said that as Srinagar steps into January amid freezing temperatures, the risk of fire incidents increases due to extensive use of heating appliances and faulty wiring. “We have already issued advisories and are conducting awareness programmes to sensitise people about fire safety measures during winter,” the official added.

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Official data released by the Fire and Emergency Services Department at a year-end press conference on Wednesday showed a reduction of 1,994 incidents compared to 2024, when 8,033 fire cases were reported.

Assistant Director Fire and Emergency Services Aqib Hussain Mir said the overall decline of nearly 25 percent was the result of sustained preventive measures, improved preparedness and growing public participation.

“This reduction did not happen overnight. It is the outcome of continuous awareness campaigns, better deployment strategies and quicker response on the ground,” Mir said.

According to the figures, Fire and Emergency Services responded to 6,039 fire calls during the year and conducted 59 rescue operations. A total of 322 fire tenders and quick response vehicles were pressed into service, supported by 2,157 personnel deployed across cities, towns and remote areas of the Union Territory.

Officials said timely intervention helped save property worth nearly Rs 5,000 crore during 2025, while losses were limited to around Rs 300 crore. They said the figures reflect improved coordination and faster first response, particularly in densely populated urban areas.

Public awareness remained a key focus area. By December 2025, the department had organised 9,887 awareness programmes in schools, colleges, hospitals, nursing homes, government offices and commercial establishments, reaching over 10.3 lakh people.

“The idea is simple. If people know how to respond in the first few minutes, the scale of damage can be drastically reduced,” Mir said, adding that special emphasis was laid on the safe use of electrical appliances, heating devices and basic firefighting techniques at the household level.

Officials said additional preventive measures were taken during the winter months, with fire tenders, pumps and quick response vehicles stationed at identified vulnerable locations to reduce response time.

As per official figures, 3,728 fire safety audits were conducted in hospitals, hotels, educational institutions, government buildings and commercial complexes, resulting in recommendations to strengthen evacuation plans, firefighting infrastructure and compliance with safety norms.

Beyond routine operations, the department also played a critical role during recent flood-like situations in Anantnag and Srinagar, carrying out search, rescue and dewatering operations at more than 60 locations. Fire service teams were also deployed during Operation Sindoor in border districts including Poonch, Uri, Sopore and Kupwara, and provided extensive safety cover during the Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2025 by establishing over 30 temporary fire stations along the Baltal and Pahalgam routes.

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Uzair Malik, a ninth-class student from Syedpora Eidgah, has quietly carved out a name for himself in Jammu and Kashmir’s growing tech space by developing websites, applications, and chatbots, all through self-learning and relentless curiosity.

Uzair’s journey into coding and app development began in 2021, when he was just beginning to understand the digital world. Fascinated by how websites and mobile applications function, he found inspiration close to home. One of his father’s friends was involved in app development, and watching him work sparked something in the young boy.

“I was curious about how everything works behind the screen,” Uzair said. “That curiosity pushed me to explore on my own.” With no formal training or institutional backing, Uzair turned to the internet. YouTube tutorials, online learning platforms, and advanced courses became his classroom.

He said that over the years, he completed more than a dozen online courses related to web development and application development, steadily building his skills.

“In the beginning, it was tough. I was very young, and sometimes the concepts felt complicated. But because I was genuinely interested in IT, I kept going,” he added.

Uzair said that he started by developing mini apps for hotels and vehicles, primarily focusing on booking systems and related services. These early projects gave him practical exposure and confidence. He says several of these hotel-related applications are in the process of verification and are expected to go live on the App Store soon.

Inspired by the rise of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, Uzair also ventured into chatbot development. So far, he claims to have created at least seven chatbots, ranging from basic conversational tools to more utility-driven assistants. “AI is the future,” he said. “I wanted to understand how it works and how it can be used to help people.”

One of Uzair’s most ambitious ideas is a platform designed on a no-commission model.

“My idea is simple. Anyone should be able to use the platform without paying commission. It should help small operators and ordinary people, not burden them.” He added. Uzair says he wants to create platforms for youngsters and small businesses, allowing them to go online without fees or hidden costs.

Speaking about the social context in Kashmir, Uzair believes constructive use of technology is more important than ever. “Today, many young people are glued to their phones, and some fall into bad habits like drug abuse. If we use the same phones to learn skills and build something useful, technology becomes a blessing.” Uzair said.

Among his key projects is an upcoming application called Free Vnce, currently available in a web-based format. The app, he said, will soon be launched as a full-fledged mobile application. FreeVence is envisioned as a platform where users can buy and sell digital assets and monetise their online skills. “If someone has a skill, whether it’s design, coding, or any digital service, this app will help them earn from it,” Uzair said.

He said that behind his growing achievements stands a strong support system. Uzair credits his parents for standing by him throughout his journey. “There were many hurdles, but my mother and father always supported me,” he said. Friends, too, encouraged him to keep learning and experimenting.

Looking ahead, Uzair dreams big. He hopes to study at one of India’s prestigious IITs and further deepen his technical expertise. At the same time, he wants to pass on what he has learned.

He also revealed that he is working on an AI-based online video editing application that will allow users to edit videos using simple prompts. “It will make editing easy for everyone,” he said.

Uzair said that for him, coding is not just about writing lines of code. It is about creating opportunities, generating jobs, and proving that age is no barrier to innovation.

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The incident triggered sparks, smoke, and a firecracker-like sound that sent people running for cover. Several commuters and pedestrians had a narrow escape while the incident briefly brought traffic to a halt in the busy locality.

According to locals, the live wire suddenly fell on the road, emitting heavy sparks and smoke, creating a frightening scene. “There was a loud firecracker-like noise, sparks were flying in all directions, and people started running here and there. Many escaped narrowly,” said an eyewitness, adding that burn marks were later visible on the road surface.

Videos of the incident soon surfaced on social media, showing people in panic amid smoke and sparks, further highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Locals said the incident could have turned fatal, given the area’s heavy footfall and proximity to a hospital.

“This is a congested area with patients, attendants, children, shopkeepers, and constant traffic movement. If the wire had fallen a little differently, it could have cost lives,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a commuter.

They said worn-out and weak supply lines in many Downtown areas continue to pose a serious risk. “These live wire faults are very common here, and sometimes they even lead to fire incidents. There is a web of old wires along with newly installed smart meter cables, creating an electric jungle,” Firdous Ahmad, a resident from Downtown, said.

Locals also stressed that these issues need a thorough inspection. “These problems keep repeating. Authorities must determine the cause and implement long-term corrective measures. Sometimes these faults become very fatal,” they said.

An official from the Power Development Department stated that the department acted swiftly upon receiving the information. “During peak hours, heavy loads at certain points can lead to faults. Our teams rushed to the spot and rectified the issue immediately. Continuous inspections are being carried out, and public safety remains our top priority,” the official said.

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Prayers were held in decorated churches in the morning, with tourists and locals joining the festivities amid an atmosphere of joy and harmony.

Carols echoed through the prayer halls of churches as members of the Christian community joined the global celebrations to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.

At the Holy Family Catholic Church on Maulana Azad Road, there was an atmosphere of celebration. Locals, tourists, and members of the Christian community gathered in large numbers, joining morning prayers amid joyful hymns. The church premises buzzed with activity as people greeted each other, clicked photographs, and recorded short videos, making every moment count.

Many tourists visiting Kashmir during the festive season also joined the celebrations. A tourist from Delhi said it was his first Christmas in Kashmir and the experience had been unforgettable. “I was amazed by the warmth and peace here. The church is beautiful, and the atmosphere is so calm and happy. What surprised me the most was seeing people from every community visiting the church and celebrating together,” he said.

Devotees said they arrived early in the morning to offer prayers and listen to the message delivered by the priest. “We prayed together and were reminded of the teachings of Jesus Christ, especially love, compassion, and forgiveness. It fills the heart with peace,” a devotee said.

Father John Paul of Holy Family Catholic Church said Christmas was a time for self-reflection and strengthening the spirit of brotherhood. “This is the right time to look inside ourselves and reconnect with our roots. In an age of artificial intelligence and artificial living, we should not lose the human touch,” he said. He expressed happiness with the participation of people from different communities, including Muslims, in the celebrations.

“The faiths of Muslims and Christians are interconnected, and our goal is the same, which is to serve humanity,” he said, praying for peace and prosperity in Kashmir.

Festivities were not limited to Srinagar alone. Gulmarg, the famed hill station in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, also witnessed vibrant celebrations at Saint Mary’s Church, with tourists and locals joining prayers against the backdrop of snow. Christmas celebrations were also held at other churches across Jammu.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday extended greetings to the Christian community in J&K, praying that the spirit of Christmas encourages people to help those in need and bring peace, prosperity and happiness to all.

Meanwhile, officials from Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation said a series of festive events had been lined up for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“Tourist footfall has been increasing steadily since the recent snowfall. Several events are in the queue, which will further enhance the experience of visitors,” an official said.

Small festive events, including Christmas Kehwa gatherings, were organised near Mughal Gardens and other parts of Srinagar, adding to the celebratory mood. Markets across the city also reflected the festive spirit, with traders dealing in Christmas decorations, papier-mache items, and gift articles reporting a rise in business. Meanwhile, the administration had made the necessary arrangements to ensure smooth Christmas celebrations across the Union Territory.

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Bachi Darwaza is not just a residential pocket but also serves as a vital access point—one of the main entrances to the revered Makhdoom Sahab (RA) shrine passes through this historic stretch. Locals say the continued presence of debris has made the area unsafe, particularly because the remaining portion of the wall has weakened over time and could collapse further.

“This wall is already damaged, and the rest of it looks fragile. Every time it rains or snows, we fear another collapse. Nothing has been done since 2024 except empty assurances,” said a resident living close to the site.

Commuters using the narrow road complain that the piled-up rubble has significantly reduced road width, creating frequent bottlenecks. With winter precipitation setting in, the situation worsens as mud oozes out from the debris, turning the road into a slippery stretch.

“During rain or snowfall, the entire road becomes slushy. People slip, vehicles skid, and it becomes very difficult to cross, especially for elderly pedestrians,” said Ashfaq Ahmad, a daily commuter.

Apart from safety hazards, residents lament that the neglected site has turned into an eyesore in an otherwise historically significant area. They stress that the Kalai is not an ordinary structure but a physical reminder of Kashmir’s Mughal past, reflecting the region’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

“These walls are part of our history. Leaving them in ruins sends a wrong message about how we value our heritage,” said a local, adding that timely conservation could have prevented further degradation.

As the second anniversary of the collapse approaches, locals and commuters are urging authorities to clear the debris, secure the weakened portions of the wall, and initiate proper restoration work.

An official said that the restoration plan is in the pipeline and will be taken up soon. “As far as my knowledge is concerned, the work is on the cards and after completion of all the necessary formalities, the restoration will start,” the official said.

However, the Director of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K, did not respond to multiple calls from this reporter when contacted for further comments.

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According to officials from the Fire and Emergency Services Department, a distress call was received at 7:21 am, following which firefighting units were immediately deployed. Fire tenders from SH Pora, MR Gunj, and other stations rushed to the spot to control the blaze.

“When our teams reached the location, the fire had already engulfed a portion of the building. A wood carving unit on the third floor and a cable operating office on the second floor were ablaze. Due to large quantities of wood and other combustible materials, the flames intensified rapidly,” an official said.

Firefighters managed to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures.

However, a major portion of the building, including its roofing and contents, was damaged. No casualties were reported, though losses are said to be substantial due to the presence of expensive carved walnut wood.

Eyewitnesses said thick plumes of smoke engulfed the locality, creating panic among residents.

“We saw heavy smoke coming out of the building, and people rushed out of their homes to help,” said a local shopkeeper.

Officials said preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by a short circuit. “Initial findings indicate that an electrical short circuit triggered the fire in one of the units, which then spread rapidly,” the official said.

The incident comes amid a noticeable rise in fire incidents across the city in recent weeks, affecting commercial establishments, government installations, and residential areas. Officials attribute this surge largely to electrical faults and unsafe use of heating gadgets during winter.

“With increased use of heaters and other electrical appliances, the risk of short circuits rises. We are issuing advisories regularly and repeatedly urging people to strictly follow standard operating procedures,” the official said, adding that proper wiring, avoiding overloading, and switching off appliances when not in use are crucial to prevent such incidents.

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