ISLAMABAD: The Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) has ordered the indefinite closure of weekly bazaars in H-9 and G-6 over concerns about inadequate fire safety arrangements.
In a notification, the Director of Municipal Administration (DMA) said the two markets would remain closed until all required fire prevention measures were fully implemented and clearance was granted by the Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) Emergency Services.
The notification stated that the bazaars would remain shut from October 16 until foolproof safety arrangements were in place and the relevant authorities issued the required clearance.
IHC orders complete shutdown of shisha cafes in Islamabad
The Director General of Emergency Services, CDA, has also been requested to direct subordinate staff to inspect both sites and determine whether adequate fire prevention measures have been implemented.
The DMA expressed hope for an early response from the emergency services authorities.
Previous Fire Incident Raises Safety Concerns
The closure follows concerns over fire safety at the weekly bazaars, particularly after a major fire at the H-9 market in June. According to the information provided, the latest action was taken amid concerns that safety instructions issued after the incident had not been fully implemented.
The weekly bazaars are popular among residents seeking affordable groceries, clothing and other household items. Their sudden closure is expected to inconvenience shoppers and stallholders, who will be unable to resume business until the required safety clearance is granted.
The authorities have not announced a date for reopening either market.
Islamabad High Court Orders Closure of Shisha Cafes
In a separate development, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday ordered the closure of all shisha cafes operating in the capital until new regulations are introduced.
IHC Chief Justice Sarfaraz Dogar issued the directive, ordering the Islamabad administration to withdraw the no-objection certificates (NOCs) previously granted to the establishments.
The court said the cafes would remain closed until new rules governing their operation were framed. A detailed written order is expected to be issued later.