Tragedy in Kathua: Ex-DSP Among 6 Killed in Devastating House Fire
In a heart-wrenching incident, a massive fire broke out in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday, consuming an entire residential house and leaving six dead, including a former Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). The fire erupted in the early hours, trapping residents inside, as flames rapidly engulfed the property. Despite prompt action by firefighters and local authorities, efforts to rescue the occupants failed due to the intensity of the blaze.
Eyewitness accounts revealed scenes of chaos and despair as neighbors rushed to douse the flames with water buckets while awaiting emergency services. Survivors lamented the absence of sufficient fire safety measures in the area, highlighting the lack of fire extinguishers or functional hydrants nearby.
The former DSP, whose name is yet to be disclosed, was visiting family members at the time of the tragedy. Local authorities suspect a short circuit as the cause of the fire, though an official investigation is underway to determine the exact sequence of events.
This tragedy once again raises questions about the preparedness of disaster response systems in rural and semi-urban areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Despite recurring incidents of fire-related deaths, measures to ensure fire safety remain inadequate, leaving countless families vulnerable.
The district administration has assured compensation for the victims’ families and announced plans to review the region's fire safety protocols. However, many residents believe promises without action will do little to prevent future disasters. As grief-stricken families mourn their loss, the call for accountability and systemic reform grows louder.
