Large Market Fire Strikes Uzbekistan’s Capital

A massive fire swept through the Beshkurgan market in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on Sunday afternoon, heavily damaging numerous shops and forcing the market to temporarily suspend operations. According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the blaze erupted shortly before 4:00 p.m. local time and burned for two hours before being brought under control. Firefighters successfully contained the flames, preventing a potential disaster by stopping the fire from reaching a nearby gas station and parking lot. Fortunately, officials have reported no deaths or injuries resulting from the incident. Local authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the extent of the material damage.