Langate: A fire broke out in a cowshed at Muqdam Mohalla of Chottipura village in the Handwara area of north Kashmir on Sunday morning, causing panic in the locality.
Locals said the fire was likely triggered by an electrical short circuit from a nearby power pole. The flames spread rapidly and threatened adjacent residential houses, prompting villagers to raise an alarm and seek immediate assistance.
Army personnel stationed at Langate camp soon reached the spot and launched firefighting efforts using fire extinguishers and a water bowser. Their timely intervention helped contain the blaze until teams from the Handwara Fire and Emergency Services arrived and took over the operation.
No casualties or injuries were reported in the incident. Officials said the cowshed, along with stored grass and fodder, was completely gutted.
Residents expressed gratitude to the Indian Army over the swift response, which averted a major loss in the densely populated area.
Authorities have in the meantime advised people to regularly check and maintain electrical installations, amid ongoing inclement weather conditions.