KULGAM – A massive fire broke out at a scrap unit in the Kulgam district on Sunday, May 10, 2026, resulting in significant property damage and reports of a loud explosion that rattled the surrounding area. Emergency services are currently on-site battling the blaze as thick plumes of smoke dominate the local skyline.

The fire erupted suddenly within the industrial scrap site, quickly spreading through combustible materials stored on the premises. Shortly after the flames took hold, witnesses and local residents reported hearing at least one major blast originating from within the facility, which accelerated the intensity of the inferno.

The fire completely gutted the Kulgam scrap unit, fueled by a variety of industrial materials and waste stored on-site. An audible blast was reported during the early stages of the blaze, though investigators are still working to determine its specific cause. Fire and Emergency Services departments were deployed immediately, and a large-scale dousing operation remains underway to prevent the flames from spreading to neighboring structures.

Multiple fire tenders are actively working to contain the perimeter. The presence of heavy smoke and the potential for further secondary explosions have made the operation particularly challenging for first responders. Local authorities have cordoned off the area to ensure public safety and to allow unobstructed access for emergency vehicles.

While the scrap unit has sustained extensive structural damage and the loss of all inventory, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or injuries. Officials are in the process of accounting for all personnel who were on-site or nearby when the fire first ignited.

Once the cooling process is complete, forensic teams and fire investigators will conduct a thorough sweep of the debris. The investigation will focus on identifying the ignition source and determining whether the reported blast was caused by pressurized containers, chemicals, or other hazardous materials stored within the scrap yard.

The dousing operation is still in progress. Local residents are advised to avoid the area due to heavy smoke inhalation risks and ongoing emergency activity.