Over 30 Shops Gutted, Livelihoods of Hundreds of Workers at Risk Ahead of Diwali
Jammu: A massive fire at Shiv Market in Jammu has reduced years of hard work and savings to ashes, leaving shopkeepers devastated and raising serious concerns about the livelihoods of hundreds of employees. For some traders, the blaze has destroyed businesses built over decades, leaving them uncertain about how to rebuild their lives.
One emotional shopkeeper said his shop was nearly 35 years old and everything had been destroyed in the fire. “Ten young men worked at my shop. Ten families depended on my business for their livelihood. Now everything has been ruined. We could not save anything,” he said, struggling to hold back his tears.
Livelihoods of Hundreds Hit
The loss extends beyond the shop owners. Employees who depended on these businesses for their daily wages are also facing an uncertain future. According to shopkeepers, each shop employed an average of four to six workers, while some businesses had even more employees.
With more than 30 shops affected by the blaze, hundreds of people could face financial hardship, including workers and their families who relied on the market for their income.
Diwali Turns into a Time of Uncertainty
The tragedy has come just days before Diwali, a period when traders usually expect increased business and families look forward to celebrations. Instead, the affected shopkeepers are facing a difficult struggle to recover their losses and restart their businesses.
The market now presents a scene of devastation, with traders mourning the destruction of their life’s savings and worrying about their employees’ futures.
Shopkeepers Seek Administrative Assistance
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, affected traders are hoping for financial assistance and support from the administration to help them rebuild their shops, restore their businesses and bring the livelihoods of their employees back on track.
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