A fire broke out at New Sabzi Mandi, Karachi on Tuesday, causing panic among traders and residents in the area. According to early reports, fires were observed in the wholesale market from several shops inside the market, which prompted a quick response by emergency services.
Multiple fire brigade units had been moved to the scene while firefighters rushed to fight off the fire and stop the flames from reaching nearby shops and warehouses. Parts of the market were filled with thick smoke and authorities had to temporarily restrict movement in the areas around the market for safety of the public.
According to officials, the cause of the fire is under investigation while operations to control fire are still underway. Luckily, no casualty has been reported so far. However, initial evaluations show that goods held in the impacted shops could be heavily damaged.
Police and market administration teams are also present to control the situation, maintain order and assist the affected traders. Eyewitnesses told stories, as portions of the market burned and the residents and shopkeepers evacuated immediately.
Authorities have asked the people to avoid the area until the fire is fully contained. Further details about the cause and full extent of the damage are likely to be revealed after a proper investigation and officials have assured the public that measures will be taken to prevent such accidents in future.
This is the second major fire eruption in Karachi this week. The first fire was at the Karachi Gul Plaza shopping mall. The fire was extremely deadly, causing over 14 casualties. The dead bodies were so badly burned that authorities were unable to identify them.
The bodies will now be identified by DNA.
Also read: Karachi Gul Plaza’s death toll climbs to 14, over 60 missing
