ISLAMABAD: A massive fire broke out at the weekly Sasta Bazaar ( Itwaar Bazar ) in Sector H-9 of the federal capital, destroying around 330 shops and stalls. Firefighting teams carried out a long operation to bring the blaze under control.
According to rescue officials, the fire started suddenly and spread rapidly, engulfing several sections of the market within a short time. The intensity of the flames continued to increase as the fire expanded across multiple blocks.
Initial reports suggested that more than 70 shops were affected, but the damage increased significantly as the situation developed.
District administration officials said additional fire tenders were called from Rawalpindi to assist in controlling the fire. Rescue 1122 teams also participated in the operation.
Authorities stated that a total of nine sections of the market were affected. Seven sections were brought under control, while nearly 80 percent of the fire was contained after sustained efforts.
Officials confirmed that no loss of life was reported in the incident. However, clothing items and other goods stored in the stalls were completely destroyed.
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On the other hand, traders expressed serious concerns over the response of the authorities. They claimed that fire brigade vehicles did not reach the site in time, which increased the scale of the damage. They also said that the market lacked proper fire safety arrangements.
Market president Abdul Rehman Khan termed the incident suspicious and said it was not an accident but a planned act. Traders have demanded a transparent investigation to determine the cause and identify those responsible.
