SWAT: A devastating fire destroyed two houses in Ayeen village of Bahrain tehsil here on Saturday.

According to local residents, the village is situated approximately two kilometres from the main Madyan-Bahrain Road across the Swat River. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

Witnesses reported that the blaze initially broke out in a 20-room house of Mohammad Nazir before rapidly spreading to neighbouring houses.

Due to the inaccessibility of the area for fire brigade vehicles, local residents along with Rescue 1122 firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the fire.

“Some people believe the fire may have started in the kitchen of the house, but this has not been confirmed. Since the only bridge connecting the village was destroyed in floods last year, no fire tender could reach the site. The villagers had to rely on self-help efforts to douse the flames,” said Saleem Yaqoob Torwali, a local resident, while speaking to Dawn.

He added that the affected houses were among the largest structures located at the top of Ayeen village. “The fire is now under control, but it has completely gutted two houses,” he said. A spokesperson for Rescue 1122 said fortunately no human or animal casualties were reported.

“Firefighters continued efforts on foot to extinguish the flames, ensuring the safety of the remaining structures,” he added.

Published in Dawn, March 23rd, 2025