ABBOTTABAD: Around 40 shops selling used clothes were reduced to ashes when a fire broke out at the Landa Bazaar due to short-circuiting.
The fire also engulfed the nearby houses and caused huge losses to the shopkeepers.
The fire broke out at around 6am and spread due to the presence of highly combustible materials such as garments, sweaters, and household goods.
The densely packed market stalls fueled the fire, sending thick, dark plumes of smoke billowing into the sky. The fire leaped to a nearby residential area, forcing panicked residents to evacuate their homes.
The emergency response faced severe criticism from traders and locals, who reported delays from Rescue 1122, police, and the local administration.
“We repeatedly called Rescue 1122, but no one responded in time,” lamented one affected shopkeeper.
The alleged negligence sparked public outrage, leading to a protest demonstration against the concerned departments with demands for accountability.
Authorities launched an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the fire.
