Hafeez Center Fire Engulfs Electronics Market
The Hafeez Centre fire has once again highlighted the importance of fire safety and emergency preparedness in commercial buildings, and the need for regular inspections and maintenance to prevent such disasters.
A massive fire broke out at Lahore's Hafeez Centre, a prominent electronics market in Gulberg, on July 10, 2025, as monsoon rains hit the city, with the five-storey building engulfed in black smoke and plumes of smoke billowing through charred corridors and shops.
The fire has raised concerns about the safety and structural integrity of the building, which has a history of disasters. In 2020, a massive fire destroyed 400-500 shops and caused estimated losses of Rs 2.5-3 billion. The cause of the current fire has not been confirmed, but officials are likely to investigate electrical faults or structural failures.
Police and Rescue 1122 teams are working to control the fire, but the full extent of the damage is still unknown. The market is a hub for electronic goods and appliances, and the fire is likely to have a significant impact on the local economy. The incident has also raised questions about the preparedness of emergency services and the need for regular safety inspections in commercial buildings.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire begins, the focus will be on ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future and that the affected businesses and individuals receive the necessary support to recover from the disaster.