United Arab Emirates-Fire at farmers market.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES-FRUIT MARKET FIRE.

Abu Dhabi: A massive fire broke out at the vegetable and fruit market in Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi, at midnight on Tuesday , burning down at least 12 shops, officials told Gulf News.

No casualties or injuries were reported.

"It was a huge fire ... at least 12 shops were completely gutted. Timely intervention coupled with well-planned action by the police prevented any casualties," said Colonel Othman Al Tamimi, Director of Emergency Management and Public Safety at Abu Dhabi Police.

"The fire began (around) 12 midnight. The market was up and running at the time, so people were alert," he said.

Colonel Al Tamimi said four Civil Defence stations and the police quick intervention unit were involved in the operation. "Within 45 minutes we were able to bring the fire under control and within two hours we doused the fire and cooled off the area."

According to another official who was engaged in the operation, the number of shops damaged in the fire could be much higher.

"When we reached the scene, the shops along two rows were on fire. Each row has about 7 to 8 shops on both sides, so I think about 34 to 36 shops could have been affected," said the official, who asked not to be named.

The Al Madinah police station, located close to the market, will be handling further investigations. "Each shop owner will be asked to open a case today. Only then the exact numbers would be clear," he said.

The total estimated loss will be derived only later on Wednesday, after the statements of the shop owners are taken by the police.