FIRE GUTS NYUMBA KUBWA BUILDING AT ARUA PARK

The affected Nyumba Kubwa in Arua park, Kampala city. NILE POST PHOTO

NILE POST

A massive fire broke out at the Nyumba Kubwa building in Arua Park, downtown Kampala, on Thursday afternoon, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and causing widespread panic among traders and commuters.

The blaze, which started around midday, has thrown the bustling commercial hub into chaos.

Witnesses claim the fire may have been caused by a trader cooking in their shop, although authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause.

The Uganda Police Fire Brigade is on-site, working tirelessly to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings.

Several vehicles and persons were stranded on the rooftop as emergency responders worked to evacuate them.

David Lewis Rubongoya, Secretary General of the National Unity Platform (NUP), was among the first public figures to arrive at the scene.

Addressing the media, Rubongoya expressed solidarity with those affected. “We have come to see how we can offer support. This is a tragedy, and we must stand together during such difficult times,” he said.

While no fatalities have been reported so far, several traders have suffered significant losses as their merchandise was destroyed in the fire.

The full extent of the damage and the number of injuries, if any, remain unclear as rescue and firefighting operations continue.

Authorities have cordoned off the area to ensure public safety and are urging people to avoid the vicinity to allow emergency services to work efficiently.

The situation remains tense, with many anxiously awaiting updates on the ongoing rescue efforts and the fire’s containment.