Fire guts 35‑40 shops at Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station

Fire engulfs Shiv Market, dozens of shops lost

A blaze erupted in the early hours of Monday at Shiv Market, the bustling commercial hub opposite Jammu Railway Station. By the time fire‑brigade crews arrived, the flames had consumed an estimated 35 to 40 shops, according to BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa. No injuries or fatalities have been reported.

Rapid response by police and administration

Police officers, senior officers and fire‑fighters worked through the night to bring the fire under control. The Deputy Commissioner, the Superintendent of Police (South), the Deputy Superintendent of Police and the Station House Officer were on site, personally overseeing the operation and coordinating relief efforts. Civil‑society volunteers also arrived to assist shop owners.

"The fire started with a short circuit in one shop and spread rapidly, engulfing surrounding shops. By the time the fire brigade arrived, the entire market had been consumed by the flames," Randhawa told reporters.

Shopkeepers call for swift compensation

A local shopkeeper, who asked to remain unnamed, said 25‑30 shops suffered total loss and urged the administration to act quickly.

"The entire market has been reduced to ashes. We pray for strength to cope with this immense loss and request immediate compensation," he said.

Randhawa confirmed that compensation will be discussed with the administration once the situation is fully contained. He added that the full extent of damage can only be assessed after the fire is completely extinguished.

What the incident means for Jammu

The prompt mobilisation of emergency services and the presence of senior officials underscore the city's readiness to handle such crises. While the fire has dealt a severe blow to local traders, the absence of casualties reflects the effectiveness of the response mechanisms in place.

Next steps

Authorities will continue to survey the market, tally losses and formulate a relief package for affected merchants. The fire’s cause remains under investigation, though the short‑circuit theory is the leading hypothesis.