UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | On Friday afternoon, a fire broke out in Gagawala Arcade located in Shauriyako market, which is situated next to Justine Arcade on Kikuubo Lane in downtown Kampala.
A huge cloud of smoke was observed hovering over the arcade and the nearby buildings in the market, as traders and passers-by were witnessed running for their safety.
Meanwhile, building management staff were heard yelling and urging traders to leave the buildings along Nabugabo road. No one is believed to have been injured.
Firefighters were seen trying to put out the fire. One witness observed that the Uganda Police Fire Brigade Station at Queen’s Way were one of the first responders to the scene, but they ran out of water and had to leave to refill their tanks.
They returned later to tackle the blaze, which was spreading across the upper levels of the building. To ensure public safety, security around the area was heightened, and access to the lane was blocked.
Onlookers watched helplessly from a distance, looking anxious and distraught as attempts were made to put out the stubborn fire.
The full extent of the damage is yet to be determined, however video footage confirms goods worth millions of shillings, including motorcycle spare parts and tyres, were lost.
The cause of the fire was yet to be determined at the time of writing this story. However, it is anticipated that the Police will provide a report on what occurred and the probable cause of the fire. Updates to follow.
WATCH: FIRE GUTS GAGAWALA ARCADE IN DOWNTOWN KAMPALA
READ MORE LIKE THIS: