JAMMU, Oct 28: The Traders Association, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, has urged the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu Division, to ensure immediate compensation, financial assistance and rehabilitation for shopkeepers affected by the devastating fire at Shiv Market near Jammu Railway Station.
In a memorandum submitted on October 28, Abhinav Anand, President of the Traders Association, Trikuta Nagar, appealed to the administration to intervene on a priority basis and facilitate adequate compensation for all eligible traders whose shops and merchandise were damaged or destroyed in the incident.
Highlighting the severe financial losses suffered by the affected shopkeepers, Anand stated that the fire had not only destroyed commercial establishments and valuable goods but had also jeopardised the livelihoods of traders and the financial security of their families. He said that many of the affected shopkeepers had invested years of hard work and personal savings in their businesses, which served as their primary source of income.
The association stressed that the sudden destruction of their establishments had left the traders facing considerable financial uncertainty. It called for timely administrative intervention to help the affected families overcome the immediate crisis and rebuild their businesses.
In the memorandum, Anand requested the administration to conduct an immediate assessment of the losses suffered by all affected shopkeepers through the concerned departments. He also sought adequate compensation for eligible traders and interim financial assistance to help them meet urgent household expenses and resume their commercial activities.
The association further urged the authorities to expedite the necessary procedures and ensure that eligible beneficiaries do not face unnecessary bureaucratic delays in receiving relief. It also called for coordination among the concerned departments and the Jammu and Kashmir Government to develop a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation package for the affected traders.
Emphasising the need for compassion and prompt action, Anand said the trading community looked towards the administration for support during this difficult period. He maintained that the affected shopkeepers should not be left to bear the entire financial burden of the tragedy on their own.
The association appealed to the Divisional Commissioner to take up the matter with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the concerned authorities for the immediate announcement and disbursement of appropriate compensation to all eligible victims.
Expressing confidence in the administration, Anand said timely intervention and financial assistance would provide much-needed relief to the affected families and help restore their livelihoods. He added that effective rehabilitation measures would demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting the trading community during times of crisis.