Arabic version: حريق في متجر الفيب في غلاسكو يؤدي إلى انهيار جزئي للمبنى

A fire at a vape shop next to Glasgow Central station escalated into a significant inferno on Sunday, resulting in the partial collapse of the building. Eyewitness Lamin Kongira, who was first on the scene, attempted to extinguish the flames but had to retreat due to explosions.

According to BBC News, the fire broke out at about 15:45 and quickly engulfed the entire structure. Kongira recounted seeing a small fire under the counter caused by a charging system. After fetching a fire extinguisher, he encountered two explosions that forced him to alert bystanders to evacuate the area.

As the fire spread, Kongira expressed concern for the safety of those nearby, stating, “When I see there is no way I can control it, I quickly run to block the road.” Firefighters arrived shortly after, battling the blaze as parts of the historic building collapsed, including its famous dome.

Glasgow Central Station has been closed to all trains since Sunday afternoon, affecting local businesses and prompting evacuations of nearby hotels. Fire crews continued to work on the site, using aerial platforms to manage the remaining flames and smoke.

Local residents expressed their shock at the destruction of the iconic building. Glasgow Labour MSP Paul Sweeney voiced concerns about the building’s viability, indicating that it may not be salvageable and that the remaining facade on to Gordon Street is likely to have to come down.