Dubai: Most of the shops that have been destroyed in a major fire at a market in the busy old town of Dubai belonged to Indians.

The fire broke out last morning and ravaged the Naif market that housed 183 shops selling everything from readymade garments, toys to perfumes.

Traders and shop assistants, the majority of whom are from India and Pakistan, said they have lost everything and it will take a long time for them to start their business again.

The Indian consul-general Venu Rajamony and consul B S Mubarak visited the market today and talked to the shopkeepers who bore the brunt.

Jameela Al Za abi, head of technical operations at Unified Ambulance Services, told Gulf News that two firefighters have been transferred to the trauma centre for minor burns.

"Eight people were also treated for smoke inhalation on site," she added. No civilian death has been reported.

Sadiq, an Indian employee, said "It was a horrible sight to see the entire market go up in flames. Our shop has been doing business here for the last 30 years."

Source : PTI