Massive Fire Ravages Bandipora Market, Dozens of Shops Gutted Anchor:-A massive fire broke out Thursday morning in the main market of Bandipora, causing widespread panic and leaving dozens of shops damaged or completely gutted, officials said. According to eyewitnesses, the fire erupted suddenly in one section of the congested market and quickly spread to adjacent shops, fuelled by closely packed structures and the presence of highly inflammable materials. Within minutes, flames engulfed a large stretch of the commercial hub, triggering chaos as shopkeepers and residents rushed to save whatever they could. Fire tenders from Fire and Emergency Services were immediately pressed into service. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours before bringing it under control. Additional teams were rushed in from nearby areas due to the intensity of the fire and the narrow lanes that hampered firefighting operations. While no casualties were reported, officials said the damage to property was extensive. Preliminary assessments suggest that property worth several crores of rupees has been destroyed in the incident. Many of the affected shops dealt in garments, electronics, groceries and household goods, resulting in heavy losses for traders. “The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. An investigation has been ordered to determine whether it was triggered by an electrical short circuit,” an official said, adding that a detailed damage assessment would be carried out once the site is fully secured. Local traders have appealed to the administration for immediate relief and compensation, saying the fire has devastated livelihoods ahead of the upcoming business season.