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Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated MeT Predicts Rain, Snow

at Isolated places in J&K
with fervour in Kashmir
Rehan Qayoom Mir

Srinagar, Nov 27 (KNO): The joy and

happiness was visible in the eyes of
little Gurmeet Singh on Monday as he
travelled from South Kashmir’s Tral
area to Chattipadshahi Gurudwara here
to celebrate the Guru Nanak Jayanti,
the birth anniversary of the founder of
Sikhism.
Dressed in a new outfit, Gurmeet was
overwhelmed at Srinagar’s Rainawari
area where Chattipadhshahi Gurud-
wara is situated. He was accompanied
by a group of children, happily running
within the premises of Gurdwara, en-
joying the fun of childhood.
Gurmeet had visited the Gurudwara
along with his family members from
Tral area of South Kashmir to offer the
special prayers organized by the Sikh
community on the auspicious occasion.
"I came from Tral along with my family
members, and I am very much happy
here in Srinagar," Gurmeet said while
talking to the news agency—Kashmir
News Observer (KNO) Correspondent.
With innocence in his eyes, Gurmeet’s
purity attracted the cameras of media
men when the photographers were
clicking his pictures at the Gurudwara.
Meanwhile, Srinagar along with other
parts of the valley witnessed a vibrant
celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti.
Devotees from all across the Kashmir
Valley, including Tral, Pulwama and
other parts, thronged the Gurudwara
here to pay their respects and seek
blessings. The atmosphere was filled
with spiritual energy as the devotees’
chanted hymns, offered prayers, and
listened to discourses on the life and
teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
The Gurudwara premises in Chatti Pat-
shahi Rainawari Srinagar, along with
other Gurdwaras of Srinagar were dec-
orated and traditional Sikh symbols
added to the festive spirit.
Speaking to KNO, locals from Sikh
community said Guru Nanak Dev Ji's
message of peace, unity, and equality is
more relevant than ever today.
“Guru Dev Ji’s teachings have inspired
generations of Sikhs and people of other
faiths to live in harmony and serve hu-
manity,” said Kapil Singh from Srinagar.
Balwinder Singh, a devotee from Indra
LG Greets People
Srinagar 27 Nov (CNS): On Guru
Nanak Jayanti, Lt. Governor Manoj
Sinha Monday greeted the people
of J&K and said all to follow the
noble teachings of the founder of
Sikhism.
“Greetings on the Prakash Parv
of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji. Guru
Ji’s profound message of equal-
ity, brotherhood, truthfulness &
compassion continues to guide
& inspire the world. Let’s on this
day, resolve to follow his noble
teachings & rededicate ourselves to
the cause of humanity, said LG in a
Srinagar, Nov 27 (UNI) Amid The MeT office said the weath- A significant improvement in
post on X.
continued cold weather condi- er will remain generally cloudy minimum temperature was
As per the followers of the Sikhism
tions, the Meteorological Cen- with forecasts of light to mod- observed over many stations
religion, Guru Nanak was the pio-
tre Srinagar forecasts isolated erate rain or snow at fairly of Kashmir Division due to
neer of Sikhism and the first of the
very light rain or snow over widespread places, with the cloudiness today, while the
ten Sikh Gurus. He is said to have
Jammu and Kashmir during possibility of thunderstorms day temperature witnessed a
travelled far and wide across Asia
the next 24 hours. and lightning at a few places slight dip also.
to teach people the message of “Ik
The weather currently is gen- during November 29 and 30 in Shallow to moderate fog is
Onkar” (one God). (CNS)
erally cloudy at most places, Jammu and Kashmir. likely to continue till Novem-
and there is a possibility of The weather would general- ber 28 over many places in the
Nagar, Srinagar said, “Guru Nanak Dev light rain or snow at isolated ly remain partly to generally Kashmir division, the MeT of-
Ji's teachings of love, peace, and equali- places over Jammu and Kash- cloudy from December 1 to 6, fice said.
ty are more relevant See Page 7 mir during the next 24 hours. it said. Fog engulfed See Page 7

Factory
operator dies
Nadeem Bashir
Srinagar, Nov 27 (KS): A
cement operator has died
of unascertained cause in
Awantipora Pulwama this
afternoon, officials said.
The officials informed news
agency Kashmir Scroll that
one Mukhtar Singh, son of
Chanan Singh, a resident of
Puran Kalan, district Gur-
daspur in Punjab was found
lying in an unconscious
condition. The individual,
the official said, was evacu-
ated to PHC Khrew, where
the doctors declared him
as brought dead on arrival.
“The body of the deceased
lies at SDH Pampore for
postmortem”, the official
further said. (KS)
Duo killed in Doda
road accident
that it has connected the Zanskar valley in
Kargil district with its ultrafast Airtel 5G
Doda, Nov 27, KNT: Two
Plus. This makes Airtel the only operator to
persons were killed and
offer 5G services in the Zanskar Valley.
the driver sustained
critical injuries after their
three-wheeler met with an
accident in the Tantana area
of Gundana tehsil in J&K’s
Doda district.
A cow ferried in the ill-fat-
ed load-carrier was also
killed in the accident that
occurred during wee hours.
Police said that a load
carrier (JK06B-1533) was
on its way to Gundana from
Thathri, when the vehicle
reached near Tantana, the
driver lost control See Page 7
J&K PET Baramulla
Gureez gets Electricity War against Terrorism not Word Cup Final
over in J&K: DGP
BANDIPORA, NOVEMBER
27: In a groundbreaking and
historical achievement, the
Gurez Valley was Sunday
successfully connected to the
electricity grid, marking first
time the region has access to
AirTel connects Zanskar
with superfast 5G Plus
Srinagar, Nov 27, KNT: Bharti Airtel has said
Located at an altitude of 7756
‘Addl. 500 MWs will bring relief to people’
Mubashir Aalam Wani
Srinagar, Nov 27 (KNO): An
additional 500 MW of elec-
tricity, which the govern-
With Onset of Winter, Fire Incidents Assuming Upward Trend, So People Should Draw Lesson and Take Advantage of Initiatives Launched by F& E Services in Kashmir
7 Kashmiri Students arrested
for celebrating India’s defeat
Srinagar, Nov 27 (UNI) Jammu
and Kashmir Director General
of Police R R Swain on Monday Srinagar, Nov 27 (UNI) Seven trict after a formal complaint
said 'the war against militancy Kashmiri students of Sher-e- was lodged by a non-local
Kashmir University of Agricul- student.
was not fully over and it will
continue even if the securi- tural Sciences and Technology The complainant, also a stu-
have been arrested under the dent of the SKUAST, said he
ty forces have to suffer some
losses at times'. stringent Unlawful Activities was supporting the country
Prevention Act (UAPA) over during the final of the Cricket
The Police Chief was talking
to reporters after paying obei- an alleged altercation with World Cup and after the match
non-local students after India finished the seven students
sance at the Gurudwara Chatti
Padshahi in Srinagar on Gur- lost the Cricket World Cup “abused” and “threatened”
final against Australia on No- him for supporting India.
a reliable source of electricity. purab, the birth anniversary of
The historic development Guru Nanak Dev. vember 19. “They also threatened me to
fight against terrorism will against militancy. The seven students of shut up, otherwise I would be
was also announced by the “The war (against terrorism)
Lieutenant Governor, Manoj is not fully over. It ends when continue despite facing some " ...The fighting force was try- SKUAST’s veterinary sciences shooted,” the complaint read.
losses at times,” the DGP said. ing to minimise losses to the and animal husbandry depart- He alleged the Kashmir stu-
Sinha, who expressed his joy one side acknowledges that
and stated that this marks a bloodshed will not take them He said there was no question public. If the challenge is to ment were arrested in Jammu dents also shouted pro-Paki-
of backing down from the war move and Kashmir's Ganderbal dis- stan slogans
momentous See Page 7 anywhere. Till that time, our See Page 7 See Page 7
Rohingya among 5 persons AC Approves Transfer of
Srinagar, Nov 27 (UNI) Police on
Monday arrested five persons, in-
hingya women via Bangladesh to
get them married to locals in Jam-
Land for public purposes
cluding a Rohingya, allegedly in- mu and Kashmir in exchange of JAMMU, NOVEMBER 27: The Ad- These include land transfer for rology (ICMR – NIV), North Zone
volved in human trafficking in Jam- money, police said on X. ministrative Council (AC), which establishment of Industrial es- Unit at Jammu.
mu Kashmir’s Bandipora district. One of the Rohingya involved in the met under the chairmanship of tates Redbug, Kupwara; Mun- The Administrative Council ap-
The accused were trafficking Ro- human trafficking the Lieutenant Governor, Mano- sif Court, Qazigund Anantnag; proved transfer of land mea-
See Page 7 See Page 7
jSinha, accorded administrative establishment of police post at suring 85 Kanals in favour of
approval for transfer of land for Moochwa, Budgam; setting up Industries & Commerce (I&C)
various public purposes.
Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor
to the Lieutenant Governor; Dr.
of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya
(JNV) at Zainpora, Shopian; es-
tablishment of National Disas-
Department, J&K for establish-
ment of Industrial Estate at
Redbug Kupwara. The Industri-
ment has decided to pur- Development Department, tailment schedule within Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Sec- ter Response Force (NDRF) Bat- al estate shall be developed at
chase, will bring the valley H Rajesh Prasad told news the valley. retary, and Dr. Mandeep Kumar talion Headquarters in district a project cost of Rs.668.25 lacs
out of the present power agency—Kashmir News Ob- “These additional 500 MW Bhandari, Principal Secretary Samba and establishment of and is expected to generate di-
crisis, officials said. server (KNO) that they will will bring normalcy and re- to the Lieutenant Governor, at- Indian Council of Medical Re- rect employment opportunities
Principal Secretary, Power be able to maintain the cur- lief to the people. tended the meeting. search, National Institute of Vi- for both skilled See Page 7
See Page 7
WE THE PEOPLE
M

gutted in blaze
Srinagar, Nov 27 (KS): J&K
People’s Educational Trust Nasir Ali three other family members were relieved to report that no loss of
Baghi Islam in Baramulla injured after a gas cylinder leak- life has been recorded due to the
was gutted in a blaze this
T

evening, officials said. The
officials informed news
agency Kashmir Scroll that
the blaze of some unascer-
Srinagar: As the winter season age, there was a cloud explosion swift response of Fire and Emer-
descends upon the picturesque in the house that led to death of gency services and the coordinat-
region of Kashmir, the comforting the woman and injuries to three ed efforts of the community. The
warmth of indoor heating systems others safety of the individuals in and
T

tained cause this evening.
“Soon after, F&ES Depart-
ment alongside the Police
and locals started a fire
becomes a necessity. However, the The second incident occurred around the masjid was the top pri-
arrival of winter also brings an around 4 pm on same day, a com- ority, and we extend our gratitude
unfortunate surge in fire incidents, mercial building was gutted in a to the first responders for their
often attributed to the improper fire incident at Bohri Kadal locality immediate and effective actions.
use of heating technology. In light in Downtown. The fire engulfed One of the leading causes of win-
O

extinguishing operation”,
the official said adding how-
ever the blaze gutted the
whole structure. Director
of this alarming trend, experts are the third floor of the masjid, ter fires in Kashmir is the overuse
advising caution to ensure safety resulted in significant damage to of heating appliances, such as
during the cold months. Historic Jamia Ahle Hadeeth Bazar electric heaters, room radiators,
On Sunday 26 November, Sri- Masjid. and gas heaters. People tend to
B

General of Police Rashmi
Ranjan Swain visited the site
to assess the loss caused in
the incident. More details
awaited. (KS
nagar witnessed two separate fire Spokesperson of Bazme Tawheed overload electrical circuits with
incidents, a 75-year-old woman - organization which runs the multiple appliances plugged into
died in Lalbazar Srinagar, while Masjid - said, thankfully, we are a single See Page 7
 THE MIRROR OF KASHMIR SRINAGAR | NOVEMBER 28, 2023, TUESDAY 07
NEWS www.mirrorofkashmir.in mirrorofkashmir@gmail.com

TB Testing ramped up for detection of cases in Kashmir

Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Nov 27 (KNO): A coor-
dinated effort to combat tuber-
culosis (TB) in Kashmir division
has led to a substantial increase
in testing initiatives, and is
aimed at early detection and re-
duced transmission rates.
Health officials informed the
news agency—Kashmir News
Observer (KNO) that TB testing
programmes have expanded
to identify cases during the
initial stages.
According to the officials,
testing has seen a threefold
increase compared to the pre-
vious year, with a focus on
detecting cases early in the
course of the disease.
In 2020, 63,307 presumptive ex-
aminations were conducted, fol-
lowed by 95,290 in 2021, 97,647
in 2022, and 220,558 examina-
tions till October this year.
The intensified testing efforts
are aimed at facilitating time-
ly treatment, reducing trans-
mission rates and breaking
the chain of TB transmission
within communities, they
said, adding that the rapid and
accurate diagnostic tools play
a crucial role in confirming TB
cases swiftly, allowing health-
care professionals to initiate
appropriate interventions
promptly.

Elections for National Bhand theatre Aka Nandun

United Quarry
Association to be
held in January
Srinagar, Nov 27, KNT: Athwa-
jan-based United Quarry
Association has declared that
it has dissolved its working
body and a new body will be
constituted after the elections
in the first week of January
2024.
The Association said that
all six members including
the Vice President, General
Secretary, and Treasurer
resigned on 14 November and
since then caretaking body
comprising Shakeel Ahmed
Rather and Farooq Ahmed
Mir has been managing the
affairs of the Association.
The Association has said
that the outgoing caretaking
president wants to cling to
the chair and he is being
requested to desist from
indulging in anti-Association
activities. [KNT]
Devotees offering special prayers during the celebrations of Gurpurab festival, at Gurdawara Chatti Padshahi in Srinagar on Monday. UNI PHOTO
is a legendary folk narrative that
transcends generations
Presents National Bhand the-
atre Aka Nandun is a legend-
ary folk narrative that tran-
scends generations, and its
essence is brought to life in an
opera that seamlessly weaves
together the rich tapestry of
Kashmiri performance art.
This theatrical is a fusion
of Kashmiri folk and the
soul-stirring melodies of Sufi-
yana Gharana that resonates
with the cultural heartbeat of
the region.
Performed blending tradition-
al bhaand style, the opera un-
dergoes a transformative jour-
ney to grace the modern stage.
Symbolic theatrical design
with its visual and auditory
spectacle aims to breathe new
life into this age-old tale.
The heart of the production
lies in its musical ensemble,
where live performances of
Kashmiri folk and Sufiyana
Maqaams form the backdrop
for the actors' and creates
an ambiance, enhancing the
emotional depth of the narra-
tive.
its core, this experimental en-
deavor aims to bring focus to
performance art form juxtapo-
sition tradition and modernity
will try to explore Aka Nand-
un in a new light.
As the curtains rise, the syn-
thesis of folklore, music,
dance, and avant-garde the-
atrical elements attempt to
create an experience that cel-
ebrates the enduring spirit of
Aka Nandun. at taigor hall in
25 Nov 2023
The presentation is based on
the text by Moti Lal Kemmu.
The music ensemble is being
supervised by Manzoor ul Haq.
The bhaand artists have been
Directed for the show by Sha-
hejehan Bhagat

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Sunday approved the purchase

Duo killed in Doda
of the steering and the vehicle fell into a deep gorge. Two persons Mir Ali
son of Noor Hussain of Konthal and Zafarullah son of Talib Hussain of Dandi
Bhala and a cow died in the accident while the driver Aqib Gulzar received
injuries and was shifted to GMC Doda.
A case has been registered at police station Doda. [KNT]
J&K PET Baramulla gutted in blaze
Guru Nanak
today than ever before. We are all one, regardless of our religion, caste, or
creed. We should all strive to live by his teachings and make the world a
better place.”
A female devotee, Mandeep Kaur, from Shivpora, Srinagar said Guru Nanak
Dev Ji’s message of langar, or communal dining, is a powerful reminder that
the people are all equal in the eyes of God. “We should all share our food and
resources with those who are less fortunate,” she said.
Meanwhile, the top police officers from Jammu & Kashmir also paid obei-
sance at Chatti Padhshahi Gurudwara today.
Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain accompanied with scores of offi-
cers, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Vidhi Kumar Bidhuri, Deputy Inspector
General (DIG) Central Kashmir Sujeet Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Po-
lice (SSP) Srinagar Ashish Kumar Mishra and others.
DIG CBI Rahul Sharma also paid obeisance at Chatti Padhshahi Gurudwara.
Besides, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Altaf Thakur also visited the Gu-
rudwara—(KNO)
MeT Predicts
isolated parts of the Kashmir valley, including Dal Lake in Srinagar, disrupt-
ing normal activities.
Srinagar recorded a low of 3.5°C on Monday against 0.0°C the previous night,
and it was 4.4°C above normal for the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir
during this period of the season.
The maximum temperature in Srinagar witnessed a slight fall and was re-
corded at 11.9°C on the previous day, against 14.5°C recorded the day before,
and it was 1.9°C below normal for the summer capital during this period of
the season.
Pahalgam had a low of 1.5°C against the -1.8°C recorded a day ago, and it was
4.9°C above normal for the tourist hot spot of south Kashmir.
Qazigund, on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, recorded a minimum
of 2.6°C today against the 0.6 °C recorded the previous night, and Kokerng
settled at 2.8°C against 1.5°C recorded the previous day.
Kupwara had a low of 1.8°C on Monday against the -0.7°C recorded a day ago,
and it was 2.9°C above normal for the frontier north Kashmir district.
Gulmarg in north Kashmir recorded a low of -1.2°C on Monday against the
0.5°C recorded on Sunday, and it was 1.9°C above normal for the famous ski
resort of north Kashmir, the MeT office said.
Gureez gets
occasion in the history of the region.
The project involves around 180 kilometers of 150 mmsq conductor, 1950
ST Poles, 4 km of underground cabeling over vast streches passing over
Razdhan Pass situated at a height of 12672 ft above sea level having most
hostile weather conditions and tough terrain and topography. The successful
test check underscores the commitment of the Government to reach out to
the people of far-flung areas.
Dr. Owais Ahmad extended congratulations to the resilient people of Gurez
Valley. He acknowledged their patience and perseverance throughout the
process and expressed optimism about the positive impact that electricity
will have on various facets of daily life, including education, healthcare, and
economic activities.
Residents of Gurez expressed their overwhelming joy and gratitude to the
Hon’ble LG, District Administration, and PDD for successful completion of
this project. They further expressed that the dedicated power supply shall
bring out manifold progress in tourism related and other economic activities.
Dr. Owais informed that the district team, including STD division, has worked
hard to complete the work as per strict timeline. He said that the 60 KM 33
KV transmission line had a successful trial on Sunday. He said that 1500 con-
sumers will be benefitted in first phase.
He further informed that the rest of the villages will be connected in a
phased manner.
The DC said that for decades, the residents of Gurez Valley have faced chal-
lenges due to the absence of a consistent power supply. He said that the
frontier sector relied on diesel generator sets for the electricity.
Dr Owais said that Gurez now enjoys grid connectivity, first time after inde-
pendence with the successful charging of the 33KV line.
The DC applauded the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including
PDD, STD Ganderbal/Bandipora, involved in making this project a reality.
He emphasized that the electrification of Gurez Valley is not just about pro-
viding power but about empowering the local communities, fostering eco-
nomic growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life.
As the lights illuminate Gurez Valley for the first time, it symbolizes not just
the arrival of electricity but the dawn of a new era for the residents, full of
possibilities and opportunities.
DGP
forward even though we have to bear losses, we will not back down from this
challenge,” the police chief added.
On infiltration from across, Swain said it increases at some places and de-
creases at some others .
“It is a matter of strategy that cannot be discussed publicly,” the DGP said.
7 Kashmiri Students
after the match “which created fear amongst the students from outside
Union territory of J&K.”
Soon after the complaint, a case was registered in Ganderbal police station
under sections 13 of UAPA and Sections 505 and 506 of the Indian Penal Code
related to public mischief and criminal intimidation.
Police said the seven accused have been arrested in the case and further in-
vestigation is underway.
A SKUAST official also confirmed the arrests. He said the incident was report-
ed from an undergraduate hostel on the campus on November 19 and the
students were arrested a day later.
AirTel connects
m from the sea level, this expansion is part of Airtel’s efforts to connect the
remotest locations of the country including high-altitude valleys through
its ultrafast Airtel 5G Plus services. The company has been ramping its 5G
roll-out in the country and has already connected 20000 villages and 5000
towns by Oct 2023. Airtel 5G Plus is available across all districts in the
Union Territory of Ladakh. All 25 villages in the Zanskar Valley can now
enjoy the power of 5G as enjoyed by millions of Indians.
Zanskar located in the Ladakh region faces extreme weather condi-
tions in winter making it almost inhabitable for 6 months of the year. The
place however becomes a popular tourist destination owing to the famous
‘Chadar Trek’, a trek along the frozen Zanskar river attracting tourists from
India and abroad. Network connectivity becomes a critical necessity for
safety, during emergencies. Airtel’s 5G service is now operational across
Rangdrum, Phey Thang Zanskar, Sani Monastery, Kisherak Rd Padum, Techa
Khasar, Karsha amongst others. The launch will not only enhance the quali-
ty of life for locals but also readies the tourist destination ahead of its peak
travel season. All the 25 villages of this region will benefit from the launch
of superfast 5G service. [KNT]
Rohingya among
identified as Manzoor Alam, they added.
Police have taken cognizance and investigations are underway, Police said.
“Five persons arrested in connection with human trafficking. One Rohing-
ya namely Manzoor Alam among arrested.The accused trafficked Rohingya
women via Bangladesh and got them married to locals in the UT in exchange
of money” , police said on X.
AC Approves
and unskilled labour, while also providing indirect employment avenues for
local vendors and youths.
In another proposal, approval was granted for the transfer of land measuring
20 Kanal at Wanpoh Qazigund, Anantnag for establishment of Munsif Court
Complex. The new Munsif Court Complex shall ensure better facilities to Ju-
dicial Officers, Litigants, Advocate as well as general public.
Approval was also granted for the transfer of land measuring 90 Kanals& 10
marlas, situated at Zainapora, Shopian in favour of School Education Depart-
ment for establishment of JawaharNavodayaVidyalaya (JNV). Setting up of
JNV shall ensure a marked improvement in the educational environment for
better future prospects of children.
In order to bolster disaster preparedness, AC approved the transfer of State
land measuring 568 Kanals in District Samba in favour of National Disaster
Response Force (NDRF), MHA GoI, for establishment of Battalion Headquar-
ters. Given Jammu and Kashmir’s susceptibility to various disaster risks, the
presence of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) becomes crucial, align-
ing with both public and national interests. Currently, the 13th Battalion of
NDRF designated for J&K and Ladakh operates from Ladhowal in Punjab, with
temporary arrangements in place.
Besides, approval was also given for transfer of land measuring 41 Kanals& 04
marlas, situated in Jagti, Nagrota, Jammu in favour of Indian Council of Med-
ical Research (ICMR), National Institute of Virology, Department of Health
Research, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, GoI, Pune for establishment
of ICMR – NIV, North Zone Unit.
The establishment of a National Institute of Virology (NIV) unit in Jammu
shall play a pivotal role in addressing virus disease outbreaks by employing
epidemiological and diagnostic tools. Besides, it shall also provide referral
diagnostic services to individuals, community, medical colleges & research
institutions.
Addl. 500 MWs
We will be able to maintain the power cut schedule. People will get electric-
ity as the load shedding will be maintained,” he said as per KNO.
of an additional 500 MW of firm power from the Ministry of Power (MOP) to
meet the base load power requirement of J&K.
To bridge this gap between demand and availability of power during winter
months, the AC approved the signing of a fresh Power Purchase Agreement
(PPA) by J&K Power Corporation Limited (JKPCL) with NTPC regarding Sin-
grauli-III run by NTPC.
Prasad informed KNO that the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) will be
signed in a day or two following which the valley will get the additional
power supply.
“We have been waiting for approval. In a day or two, the PPA will be signed
by J&K Power Corporation Limited (JKPCL) with NTPC. Formalities have been
completed regarding it and now we are ready for the agreement,” he said.
The Principal Secretary PDD said the supply of electricity to the valley has
already increased to nearly 1600 MWs. “Currently, we are getting between
1500-1600MWs of electricity. We are hopeful the power situation will en-
hance with the procurement of additional 500 MWs,” he said.
Prasad said they will also now launch a sustained campaign across the valley
for the judicious use of electricity.
“We will now raise awareness among the people for judicious use of electric-
ity. We will use various mediums to highlight the need for judicious use of
electricity,” he said.
Pertinently, the valley for the last two months has been facing an acute pow-
er crisis.
From domestic to commercial consumers, the power crisis has affected ev-
eryone in Kashmir.
While domestic consumers said they didn’t get electricity as per the curtail-
ment schedule, industrialists said their losses have mounted to nearly 75
percent—(KNO)
With Onset of Winter, Fire Incidents
socket. This can lead to overheating, electrical short circuits, and, ulti-
mately, fire outbreaks. Using liquified petroleum gas (LPG) heaters, it is
important to have proper ventilation to ensure proper oxygen levels and
to prevent the build-up of gas. Using multiple appliances at the same
time, such as an electric blanket and a hot water bag, as this can lead to
short circuits and increase the risk of fire.
Assistance Director Fire and Emergency, Mir Aqib Hussain informed
‘The Mirror of Kashmir’, “the Lalbazar incident occurred due to leak-
age of a LPG cylinder, they received the information about the incident
and pressed multiple fire tenders into the service, There was no gas
cylinder blast. However, due to the gas leakage, there was a cloud explo-
sion in the house that led to death of the woman and injuries to three
others,” Mir said.
He added “Bhorikadal fire situation posed difficulties for us, and our
foremost focus was control flame containment. In proximity to the back
of the structure, numerous residential houses were present, knowing
that the residences in the downtown are in close proximity, creating
congested living spaces and narrow pathways that could complicate op-
erations. Sourcing water also presented a challenge for us. Despite these
obstacles, we exerted our utmost efforts and successfully safeguarded
the densely populated area and Mosque. In fact, a few of our firefighters
incurred minor injuries. Eventually, the fire was brought under control
in this highly vulnerable downtown area, thanks to the collaboration
of local residents and police,” Mir said
“Preventing fire incidents in society is a shared responsibility that
involves both the government and the general population. Each has
a distinct role to play in minimizing the risk of fires and ensuring
the safety of individuals and their property. A fire can start anytime,
anywhere. Every structure and household needs to accept it as a re-
ality and be prepared to handle it. The red colored fire extinguishers
are not an ornamental object and needs to adorn every human dwell-
ing. People need to remain cautious, particularly during autumn and
winter when such incidents occur more. The faults in electric wires
should be removed well before they cause fire. Usage of heating ap-
pliances and Kangris need to be done with care,”
“Fire Services Department headed by Alok Kumar ADGP Director
Fire and Emergency Services J&K who took keen interest in making
awareness campaign regarding fire safety a regular exercise. We have
initiated safety awareness initiatives and fire extinguisher training.
In Srinagar alone, we conduct over 20 such programs on a monthly
basis in schools, colleges, and hospitals. If individuals desire similar
programs in their specific areas, they are encouraged to reach out
to us. Our commitment is to the community, and we are available to
provide assistance. Live demonstrations illustrating the correct utili-
zation of fire extinguishers can be organized, accompanied by informa-
tion on fire safety measures to be implemented in case any unfortunate
event of a fire incident takes place within the locality. Understanding
and addressing these factors is essential to reducing the risk of winter
fires and ensuring the safety of residents during the colder months,”
Assistant Director Mir Aquib told.