Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH – Civil Defense teams managed to control a fire in a building under construction near Riyadh’s landmark Faisaliah Tower.

Maj. Muhammad Al-Hammadi, spokesman of Civil Defense in Riyadh region, said that no one was hurt in the small fire that broke out from electricity cables and thermal insulation materials at the building site on Olaya Street.

The quick rescue operation by the Civil Defense forces averted a major tragedy, according to eyewitnesses.

Al-Hammadi said the fire caused huge plumes of smoke billowing from the building.

An investigation is underway to find out the cause of the fire, he said.

The massive smoke that engulfed Faisaliah Tower and several adjoining skyscrapers in Al-Olaya district created panic among local residents.

Hundreds of people thronged the area to know the source of the smoke.

Witnesses said wooden planks used for concrete work helped in spreading the fire.