Recurring safety lapses and suspected electrical fault spark devastating blaze in one of capital’s busiest weekly markets.
A massive fire tore through the popular H-9 Sunday Bazaar (also known as Itwar Bazaar) in Islamabad on Tuesday evening, destroying or severely damaging over 300 shops and stalls and causing losses worth millions of rupees to vendors. Dense black smoke covered the skyline while flames quickly consumed rows of closely built stalls, drawing attention from across the federal capital.
Firefighting teams from Rescue 1122 and local fire brigades, along with police, responded to the scene and brought the blaze under control after several hours of intense efforts. Authorities confirmed no injuries or casualties were reported, though the financial toll on small traders-many of whom sell affordable clothing, shoes, household items, and other goods-is significant.
Suspected Cause: Electrical Short Circuit Amid Recurring Hazards:
According to rescue officials, the fire was triggered by an electrical short circuit, with the intensity amplified by exploding batteries stored in several shops. Reports also mentioned possible involvement of LPG cylinders in the densely packed market.
The H-9 Sunday Bazaar has a troubling history of fires. Similar incidents have occurred in recent years, including a major blaze in July 2024 that gutted nearly 700 stalls (often linked to electrical faults or post-rain short circuits) and earlier events in 2022. Critics point to inadequate fire safety measures, poor electrical wiring, makeshift stalls, and insufficient firefighting preparedness in this high-traffic weekly market.
Vendors and locals have long raised concerns about safety standards. The market operates with temporary setups, generators, and stored flammable goods in close proximity, creating a high-risk environment. Following the latest incident, Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa (in similar past cases) has formed inquiry committees to probe causes and recommend improvements, such as better power distribution and enforcement of safety protocols.
H-9 Weekly Bazaar Fire Leaves Traders Devastated:
The fire reportedly broke out around 10 PM near Peshawar Mor. Flames spread quickly through sections dealing in shoes, clothing, and other merchandise. Shopkeepers described scenes of panic as they tried to salvage goods while thick smoke filled the air.
One vendor told local media: “We lost everything in minutes. This market is our livelihood.” Many expressed frustration over repeated incidents and called for systemic fixes rather than temporary relief.
Weekly bazaars like H-9 serve as vital economic hubs for low-income families and small businesses in Islamabad, offering affordable goods. However, their informal nature often means lax enforcement of building codes, fire safety, and electrical standards. Past inquiries have highlighted deficiencies in standard operating procedures and delayed initial responses.
Authorities have promised damage assessments and possible compensation for affected traders. Long-term solutions under discussion include centralized power systems, regular safety inspections, and restrictions on hazardous storage.
As investigations continue, this latest fire underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to prevent such disasters in Pakistan’s bustling informal markets. Residents and traders hope that this time, concrete action will follow the inquiries.