Massive Fire at Islamabad Weekly Sunday Bazaar Reduces 335 Shops and Stalls to Ashes
According to rescue officials, the fire erupted suddenly and spread rapidly, engulfing multiple sections of the market within minutes. Initial reports suggested that more than 70 shops had been affected, but the scale of destruction increased significantly as the flames continued to spread.
District administration officials stated that additional fire brigade vehicles were called in from Rawalpindi to assist in controlling the blaze, while Rescue 1122 teams remained actively engaged in emergency operations.
Authorities confirmed that a total of nine sections of the bazaar were affected. Seven sections were brought under control during the operation, and firefighters managed to contain nearly 80% of the fire after hours of intense efforts.
Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident. However, stalls selling clothes and various household goods were completely destroyed.
Meanwhile, traders expressed serious concerns over the response of the administration and rescue services, claiming that fire brigade vehicles failed to reach the site on time, which worsened the damage. They also criticized the lack of adequate fire safety arrangements at the market.
Sunday Bazaar President Abdul Rehman Khan called the incident suspicious, alleging that the fire may not have been accidental but part of a deliberate conspiracy.
Traders have demanded a transparent investigation into the incident and urged authorities to identify those responsible.