One of the largest electronics markets in Lahore, Hafeez Center, hit by a fire on July 10, 2025, that affected trade at the center. The mishap took place at the basement of the multi-storey plaza in Gulberg, which led to emergency services of Rescue 1122 and local fire brigades. The Hafeez Center blaze was reigned in following hours-long firefighting process.
The fire caused by an electrical short circuit reported by authorities. Initial evidence shown that the cause could be attributed to defective wiring and rainwater penetrating in the basement. No casualties or injuries recorded, but few vehicles like motorcycles and cars destroyed in the basement parking.
Hafeez Centre traders and shopkeepers complained about money losses, and damage measurements have been continuing. A lot of people are afraid of losing a lot of electronic stock and their personal belongings. The Hafeez Center Lahore fire has been the third at the place that has experienced a similar event in 2010 and 2020. Losses due to previous fires have been massive and safety recommendations not partially met.
Although structural surveys had been conducted and fire safety renovation guidelines given in the past, the plaza had not rigidly complied with them. The plaza had been closed by the authorities in 2020, only to reopened following a partial clean-up, doubting the safety bylaws.
The process of cooling went on throughout the night and the police locked down the area to inhibit the entry of people. The building is not accessible to all people as investigations and security checks proceed. A formal investigation is underway to get the level of negligence and responsibility.
