Cause unknown
Over 100 shops damaged in Duhok bazaar fire
DUHOK — A large fire broke out early Wednesday at Chale bazaar in Duhok, destroying more than 100 shops.
The blaze, which started around 3 a.m., prompted the hospitalization of 21 people for smoke inhalation. It took firefighters and helicopter crews more than three and a half hours to get the fire under control, according to Duhok Civil Defense.
Bewar Abdulaziz, a spokesperson for the civil defense, said the effort involved 30 teams with over 300 personnel. Seven firefighters experienced health issues during the operation.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but some shop owners believe an electrical short circuit may have sparked the flames. No deaths were reported.
The market, which houses over 200 shops selling mainly women’s Kurdish dresses, children’s clothing, and other items, includes several residential buildings that were evacuated.
Shop owner Mohammed Delovan said the fire’s cause remains unclear but noted the significant financial toll on merchants. “Each of us has suffered losses ranging between $30,000 to $40,000,” he said.
