A fire erupted in Islamabad’s Sunday bazaar in H9, destroying approximately 700 shops. The incident unfolded in one of the capital city’s busiest marketplaces, leading to extensive damage and economic loss.
The Islamabad administration reported that the fire originated in the market section dedicated to shoes and garments. The blaze quickly escalated, spreading to adjacent sections, including the area where kitchen utensils were sold, engulfing a vast array of merchandise in flames.
Firefighting teams faced a challenging task in controlling the inferno. 31 fire brigades were mobilized to tackle the blaze, working tirelessly to contain and eventually extinguish the fire. The intense operation required coordinated efforts to prevent further spread and damage.
Several other entities supported the firefighting efforts in addition to the local fire brigades. The Pakistan Navy, Air Force, and the Rawalpindi administration provided critical assistance, contributing resources and personnel to help manage the situation effectively.
This incident not only highlights the vulnerabilities in market safety standards but also underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and response capabilities in preventing such disasters in the future. The loss incurred has a significant impact on the local economy, and the livelihoods of the shop owners affected. Recovery and reconstruction efforts are expected to follow, with calls for improved safety measures to prevent similar occurrences.