Budgam, Sept 7 (JKNS): A devastating fire late Saturday night reduced Mir Saw Mills in Hayatpora area of Beerwa, Budgam, to ashes, inflicting losses worth nearly ₹40 lakh.
As per news agency JKNS, the mill owner said goods valued at around ₹30 lakh, besides costly machinery, were completely destroyed in the blaze. “We were informed about the fire around Sehri time. Though Fire and Emergency Services reached the spot and managed to douse the flames, most of the property had already been gutted,” he said.
The owner maintained that the unit had not been connected to electricity for the past two years, dismissing chances of an electrical fault. He alleged that the incident may have been deliberate. “Yesterday being a holiday, no one was at the mill. We strongly suspect arson and urge police to investigate thoroughly,” he added.
Workers at the mill expressed anguish over the destruction, noting that nearly 30 families depended on it for livelihood. “Our only source of income has been wiped out. We appeal to authorities to ascertain the cause and bring the perpetrators to justice,” one of them said.
Police have taken cognizance of the matter and initiated investigations. (JKNS)
