Islamabad Closes H-9 and G-6 Bazaars Over Fire Safety Concerns

ISLAMABAD: The Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) has announced the closure of the H-9 and G-6 weekly bazaars until comprehensive fire safety measures are implemented and clearance is granted by the Capital Emergency Services. This decision, effective immediately, aims to address ongoing safety concerns following a series of fire incidents at these popular markets.

Director DMA Mohammad Tariq Latif issued a notification emphasizing the need for stringent fire prevention protocols at both sites. He urged the Director General of Emergency Services at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to ensure that all necessary safety measures are in place. The DMA expressed optimism for a swift response to these critical safety issues.

The H-9 Weekly Bazaar, also known as the Sunday Bazaar, has faced multiple fire outbreaks over the years, raising alarms about safety standards, electrical wiring, and firefighting readiness. The most recent incident occurred in June, when a significant fire broke out in Block C, predominantly housing shoe stalls, necessitating a large-scale emergency response. This marked the fifth fire incident at the bazaar since 2017, highlighting a persistent risk to vendors and shoppers alike.

In light of these developments, the DMA is expected to collaborate closely with emergency services to expedite safety assessments and implement necessary improvements. The closure of these bazaars not only impacts local vendors but also raises questions about the adequacy of fire safety regulations in public markets across the capital.