ISLAMABAD: Rescue officials and firefighters were busy dousing the flames on Tuesday night after a massive blaze erupted at Islamabad’s H-9 bazaar, an official said.
Islamabad deputy commissioner’s office said the fire broke out in the bazaar’s clothing stalls, adding that authorities ae determining the cause.
The statement said 80 percent of the flames had been brought under control due to the district administration’s timely response.
“Overall, the fire engulfed nine sections of the market, of which seven sections have now been brought under control,” the deputy commissioner’s office said.
“No loss of life has been reported due to the fire.”
The statement said the assistant commissioner of sector H-9 had reached the site while Rescue 1122 emergency teams from Rawalpindi were also participating in relief operations.
Islamabad Police said in a separate statement that law enforcement personnel were carrying out their duties at the site.
“The public is requested to act as responsible citizens and fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies and emergency services, and to avoid unnecessary crowds,” it said.
The H-9 bazaar, also known as “Sunday Bazaar” or “Itwar Bazaar,” is a large open-air market in sector H-9 and is one of the capital’s most popular budget shopping destinations.
Stalls at the Sunday Bazaar offer clothing items, fruits and vegetables, household goods, toys, furniture, curtains, meat and snacks.
While the shop is thronged by thousands of people every Sunday, the market remains open on Tuesdays and Fridays.
