Fire Erupts at Hotel Dhauladhar in Kotwali Bazar, Investigation Underway

Fire Incident at Hotel Dhauladhar

News Media
Dharamshala

A significant fire broke out at the Hotel Dhauladhar located in Kotwali Bazar on Thursday night, causing alarm among local residents and shopkeepers in the bustling market area. Thick smoke billowed from the building as fire crews rushed to the scene.

Preliminary reports indicate that a suspected gas pipeline leak might have ignited the fire, although officials have stated that the precise cause is still being investigated. The sudden outbreak of flames prompted an immediate evacuation of guests and staff. Eyewitnesses recounted chaotic scenes as individuals hurried to escape while firefighters worked diligently to control the blaze.

Two fire brigade units were dispatched to extinguish the flames, and the personnel labored relentlessly to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings in the crowded bazar. Their prompt response helped avert a more significant disaster in the town's center.

R.S. Bali, the Urban Development Minister, took personal charge of the situation, arriving at the location to supervise rescue and relief efforts. He reassured the public that all necessary actions were being implemented to ensure safety and that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the fire. Bali also instructed officials to evaluate damages and offer support to those impacted.

The area has been cordoned off by authorities, and traffic has been redirected to aid firefighting efforts. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far, but the incident has raised serious questions regarding fire safety measures in commercial properties.

The fire at Hotel Dhauladhar highlights the urgent need for strict compliance with safety regulations, especially in densely populated market areas. Investigations are ongoing, and officials are expected to provide a detailed report once the cause is established.