In Jammu and Kashmir, the administration has directed all concerned agencies to be on the ground to provide help and relief to the villagers of Malwarwan village in Kishtwar district, where a massive fire razed about 70 houses last evening.

A massive fire broke out in Malwarwan village of Kishtwar district yesterday afternoon, ravaging nearly 70 residential houses and around 30 cow sheds. Police personnel and local volunteers worked together to control the fast-spreading blaze. Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan announced an ex-gratia of 5 lakh rupees for affected families under the Red Cross relief.

No casualties have been reported, meanwhile, some animals have been affected by the fire. The Indian Air Force has deployed a helicopter to assist with rescue and relief operations in the area.