MINGORA, Nov 23 Huge fire reduced six shops to ashes here in the city general bus stand on Saturday night.

Local people said that unidentified persons set on fire a music centre and a barber shop in the bus stand which engulfed four others shops. Fire brigade reached the spot and extinguished fire after five-hour efforts.

Local people have already wound up CD business in Mingora city and other parts of Swat district due to escalation in militancy.

Meanwhile security forces have started a de-mining operation in Kabal subdivision after militants vacated the area on Saturday.

Explosive experts were searching the area to defuse landmines and ordnances planted by the militants.

Officials said that after making the area secure displaced families would be allowed to return to their homes.