On the evening of 1 July 2025, a significant blaze broke out in Pietermaritzburg’s Central Business District, close to the Professor Nyembezi building, igniting two adjacent retail units: a clothing shop and a cellphone outlet
The fire unfolded around early evening, with flames swiftly consuming both stores. Emergency services—firefighters, police, and paramedics—rushed to the scene and worked quickly to cordon off the area, shutting down several nearby roads to facilitate response efforts
Fortunately, no casualties have been reported. One firefighter sustained minor injuries but is expected to make a full recovery
The affected stores suffered extensive damage, and authorities are urging commuters and motorists to avoid the area while cleanup and assessments continue .
Article written by:
Hudaa Ahmed
Journalist at Radio Al Ansaar
