In a devastating incident, at least 50 people have been confirmed dead, and dozens more injured after a massive fire broke out in a shopping mall in Iraq, according to local authorities.
The fire started in the late evening hours and quickly engulfed several floors of the building. Videos circulating on social media show plumes of thick black smoke, flames erupting from windows, and crowds screaming for help.
📍 Where It Happened
The incident occurred at a major commercial mall in central Iraq, reportedly one of the busiest shopping centers in the city. The name of the mall has not been officially disclosed yet due to ongoing investigations.
🚒 Rescue and Emergency Response
Firefighters and emergency crews battled the blaze for hours, working through the night to control the flames and rescue those trapped inside.
Over 15 firefighting units were deployed
Emergency services evacuated more than 100 people
At least two firemen sustained injuries during rescue efforts
Hospitals across the region are on high alert, treating both burn injuries and smoke inhalation victims.
🧾 What Authorities Are Saying
A spokesperson from Iraq's Civil Defense Directorate stated:
“The scale of destruction is immense. We suspect that flammable materials stored illegally may have triggered or accelerated the fire.”
An investigation has been launched to determine:
Cause of the fire
Safety violations (if any)
Accountability of mall management
⚠️ Eyewitness Accounts
Several survivors described chaotic scenes:
“The alarms didn’t go off in time. The fire spread too fast. We had to jump out of windows to survive,” said one injured shopper.
Another said:
“There was no emergency exit in sight. People were trampled while trying to get out.”
🏢 Mall Safety Under Scrutiny
This tragedy has reignited concerns about fire safety and building codes in Iraq, especially in older malls and commercial buildings where:
Fire alarms don’t work
Exits are blocked
Sprinkler systems are missing
🕯️ Global Condolences Pour In
World leaders and humanitarian groups have expressed grief:
UN offered condolences and support
India, UAE, and Turkey sent messages of solidarity
Aid agencies are offering medical supplies and relief teams
FAQs
1. How did the fire start?
Officials suspect electrical short circuit or illegal flammable storage, but an investigation is ongoing.
2. Are there any foreign nationals among victims?
Authorities haven’t confirmed yet. Rescue teams are still identifying bodies.
3. What action is being taken?
A criminal inquiry has been launched, and fire audits of malls across Iraq are being planned.
Published on : 17th July
Published by : SMITA
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