Eight shops worth millions of rupees in Saddar Bazaar were burned on Monday in a fire that started at a shop selling garlands made from currency notes.
Rescue officials said the fire had apparently started due to an electric short circuit.
The fire spread to seven adjacent shops, four of which were completed gutted. Rescue 1122 and fire brigade were called. It took over two hours to put out the fire. All shops in the market were closed and power to the market disconnected to avoid further short circuiting.
Scores of people gathered around the fire scene which hindered the rescue operation. Police were called to disperse spectators and expedite the operation.
Rescuers said the fire started at Riaz Garland Corner in Saddar Bazaar near the vegetable market. It soon spread to Khan Fresh Flower Shop and Afaaq Garland Corner. Before shopkeepers and residents rushed to put it out with self-help, it had spread to five other shops.
Witnesses said shopkeepers in other shops started emptying their shops to avoid losses. Windows of several other shops, that otherwise remained unharmed, were broken.
Three shopkeepers were injured from shattering glass. They were given first aid on the spot.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 4th, 2014.