Several shops gutted as massive fire engulfs Rawalpindi's Urdu bazaar

A significant fire gutted several shops and properties in Rawalpindi's Urdu Bazaar on Thursday as rescue officials battled the blaze.

Fire department vehicles and bowsers of the Pakistan Army are struggling to put off the flames. Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid also arrived at the market to review the situation. He spoke with the locals and inquired about the incident.

Earlier today, Rescue 1122 reached the site of the incident, but couldn't begin the operation in time due to the narrow roads leading to the market.

According to reports, only one vehicle of the department could initially reach the scene, causing the fire to spread further.

Heavy contingents of police also reached the site to oversee the fire fighting efforts. The adjacent market was also evacuated as a safety measure.