Fire engulfs Rawalpindi shanties on Eid
PHOTO: FILE
On the first day of Eid, a tragic fire broke out due to a short circuit in the shanties near Nullah Leh at Dhok Ratta Road.
Fortunately, there were no casualties reported. Firefighters successfully brought the fire under control after an hour of intense efforts, saving numerous homes.
According to eyewitnesses, a fire broke out in a reed hut situated in a slum two hours after the Eid prayers due to a short circuit in the electrical wires. The fire quickly spread and affected numerous individuals residing in the huts.
To protect themselves, the men, women and children living in the huts fled from the scene. The excessive use of cloth and plastic materials within the huts, combined with the presence of strong winds, played a significant role in the spread of the fire.
Upon receiving information, the fire tenders of Cantonment Fire Brigade and Rescue 1122 swiftly arrived at the scene.
A spokesperson from Rescue 1122 stated that 12 firefighters participated in the operation. Demonstrating remarkable skill, the firefighters effectively brought it under control by utilising six tankers of water, targeting the centre of the blaze, he said.
Once the fire was under control, a search operation was conducted in the affected huts, but no casualties were reported. Various items such as furniture, electronics, carpets, and other valuables were completely burned to a crisp.
The preliminary investigation indicates that a short circuit triggered the fire. However, local police have filed an incident report.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 13th, 2024.