KATRA, SEPTEMBER 20: A fire partially damaged the helipad terminal in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district, early Sunday, officials said.
No casualties were reported in the incident, which occurred when the terminal was closed, officials said.
The fire broke out around 3:15 am, apparently due to a short circuit, and was brought under control within about 30 minutes through the joint efforts of terminal staff, security personnel and Fire and Emergency Services personnel.
Officials said the blaze caused damage to parts of the terminal, with several computers at the ticket counter and items at a coffee shop reduced to ashes.
“The fire was controlled within 30 minutes,” officials said, adding that the terminal was not operational when the incident occurred.
The helipad terminal serves as an important transit point for pilgrims travelling to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, located atop the Trikuta hills.
Officials said the extent of the damage is being assessed, while further details are awaited.
