Three B’deshi tourists killed in Dal Lake blaze

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Title: Tragic Blaze Claims Lives of Three Bangladeshi Tourists on Dal Lake Houseboat

Srinagar, November 11, 2023 – In a devastating incident on Saturday, a major fire engulfed a houseboat on the renowned Dal Lake, resulting in the tragic death of three tourists from Bangladesh. The victims, identified as Anindaya Kowshal, Mohammad Moinud, and Das Gupta, were staying aboard the houseboat named Safeena when the blaze erupted near ghat nine on the picturesque lake. This incident has sent shockwaves through the popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital.

The swift response by authorities led to the rescue of eight individuals, who were saved through the combined efforts of the Srinagar Police, State Disaster Response Force, Tourist Police, Fire and Emergency Services, and local residents. However, the bodies of the three unfortunate tourists were recovered from the debris of the gutted houseboat.

Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, expressed his heartfelt condolences for the lives lost in this tragic incident. An investigation into the cause of the fire has been initiated, with a report filed at RM Bagh police station. Preliminary findings suggest that the fire broke out in one of the houseboats during the early hours, possibly due to a malfunctioning heating appliance.

The blaze quickly spread, consuming not only the Safeena houseboat but also four others, namely Sabreena, Young Gulshan, Lala Rukh, and Khar Palace. Additionally, seven residential huts and neighboring houses were also ravaged by the fire, creating a scene of devastation and loss.

Authorities have taken DNA samples from the victims to establish their identities, as one of them was a woman, according to records maintained by the houseboat operators. The bodies will only be released to the grieving families after DNA matching has been completed, ensuring accurate identification.

The incident has raised concerns about safety measures and the maintenance of heating appliances on houseboats in the Dal Lake area. Efforts are underway to determine the exact cause of the malfunction that triggered the tragic fire.

The picturesque Dal Lake, famous for its serene beauty and serene surroundings, attracts tourists from all over the world. This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols and regular maintenance to prevent such tragedies.

As the investigation proceeds, authorities are working towards implementing stricter safety regulations to ensure the well-being of tourists and residents in the region. The local community has also extended their support and condolences to the families affected by this horrific incident.

The loss of these three Bangladeshi tourists has left a deep void in the hearts of not only their families but also the larger tourism community. The memories of their visit to the enchanting Dal Lake will forever remain tarnished by this tragic event.

In memory of the lives lost, it is crucial for all stakeholders to come together and take proactive steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The safety and well-being of tourists should always remain a top priority, and collective efforts must be made to ensure their protection while they enjoy the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir’s breathtaking landscapes.

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