Shops gutted in massive fire on Bharmour-Chamba highway

A major fire broke out late Wednesday night at Luna, along the Bharmour-Chamba highway, reducing four shops and a pick-up vehicle to ashes. The blaze, which started around 11 pm, quickly turned into an inferno as multiple gas cylinders exploded, further intensifying the flames.

According to the local police, the fire erupted suddenly, engulfing several makeshift shops, including a roadside eatery, a Chinese fast-food stall, a motor mechanic’s workshop, a tire repair shop and a hotel. Residents, startled by the flames, attempted to control the fire but were unable to contain its rapid spread.

Firefighters from Khadamukh were alerted and rushed to the scene. Their swift response prevented the blaze from spreading further and potentially engulfing the entire market. Despite their efforts, the fire was so intense that it spread to the nearby forest, posing a serious threat to adjacent villages. However, with the combined efforts of the fire brigade and local residents, the forest fire was extinguished before it could cause more damage.

The estimated loss from the fire is pegged between Rs 10-15 lakh, as all goods inside the affected shops were completely destroyed. The tragedy has left several shop owners, including Naresh Kumar, Pritam Chand, Paramjeet and Purshotam, grappling with the loss of their livelihoods.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, while efforts are underway to provide relief to the affected shopkeepers.