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ABBOTTABAD, Oct 25 (APP): A devastating fire broke out at Ali Plaza in Mandian’s Landa Bazaar late last night, reducing dozens of shops and several nearby houses to ashes. The blaze caused losses worth millions of rupees, plunging the local trader community into grief and anger.
According to eyewitnesses, despite repeated calls to emergency helplines Rescue 1122 and Police 15, no one initially responded. Frustrated residents said they were forced to rush to inform the rescue staff in person. “We kept screaming for help, but no one came,” a visibly distressed shopkeeper told reporters.
The fire spread rapidly, fueled by clothing, footwear, and household goods stored in the shops. Residents said the delayed arrival of rescue teams allowed the flames to intensify, causing further destruction.
Rescue 1122 officials confirmed that the fire erupted due to unknown reasons in several shops opposite Ali Plaza near Mandian Small Industries. Upon receiving the report, four fire vehicles and two ambulances were immediately dispatched to the site. Due to the high intensity of the flames, additional firefighting teams were called from Havelian, Cantt Board TMA, Haripur, and Mansehra.
Around 40 firefighters took part in the operation, successfully bringing the fire under control after hours of effort. The cooling process was still underway at the time of reporting. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.