On Wednesday, September 27, a devastating fire engulfed a wedding venue just outside the predominantly Christian town of Hamdaniya, in northern Iraq’s city of Mosul.
The reported casualties from this event stand at 113 deaths and nearly 150 injuries. Officials have advised that these numbers could potentially be revised upwards.
Eyewitnesses and emergency services have pinpointed the fire’s ignition source as fireworks activated inside the venue. Sparks from the fireworks reached and ignited the ceiling. The building’s materials, in conjunction with the decorative elements on the walls and ceiling, were highly flammable. The fire’s unexpected and rapid spread left attendees scrambling for safety.
Video clips disseminated on social media channels showed the alarming rate at which the fire spread, instigating panic among guests. Among those affected were the bride and groom who were seen escaping the scene. Of the roughly 1,000 total attendees, a significant number, approximately 700, found their primary exit route blocked by the flames.
The situation further deteriorated when electricity was cut off. Descriptions from a witness painted a grim picture of dense smoke, suffocating conditions, individuals collapsing, and frantic attempts to find an exit. Further complicating rescue attempts, a part of the ceiling collapsed, resulting in more victims.
In response, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has mandated a detailed investigation. He has also coordinated with the interior and health ministries for immediate relief efforts.
Insight from Nineveh’s provincial government suggests that the investigation’s scope will encompass both the origin of the fire and the safety protocols followed by the venue. Amidst these developments, reports indicate the venue’s proprietor, facing possible charges related to the incident, is in hiding.
This unfortunate event adds to the list of disasters in Iraq, with many attributing them to substandard building practices and inadequate safety guidelines. Among these, notable fires in hospital facilities in Baghdad and Nasiriyah, catering to COVID-19 patients, resulted in significant loss of life.
