Fire Outbreak Outside Margaret Drive Hawker Centre Leaves 3 Vehicles Damaged

SINGAPORE — Patrons enjoying their evening meal at Margaret Drive Hawker Centre were startled on Thursday evening when a sudden blaze erupted just outside the busy dining precinct, leaving three vehicles damaged and drawing a crowd of onlookers.

The incident occurred at approximately 6:50 PM near Block 38A Margaret Drive. Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke rising from the open-air parking area adjoining the courtyard before vibrant orange flames quickly engulfed the scene.

Diners inside the popular multi-storey hawker complex paused as thick plumes of grey smoke drifted past the entrance. Passers-by and nearby residents gathered at safe distances, filming videos and alerting authorities as flames began spreading across the parked vehicles.

Officers from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) arrived at the location shortly after receiving emergency calls.

Equipped with water jets and hose reels, firefighters worked rapidly to contain the inferno and prevent the flames from reaching nearby building structures or surrounding foliage. The blaze was brought under control within minutes.

Preliminary assessments indicate that three parked vehicles suffered varying degrees of fire and heat damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as the vehicles were unoccupied at the time of the outbreak.

The exact origin of the blaze remains unclear. SCDF officers conducted post-extinguishment operations, damping down remaining hotspots to prevent reignition.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway. Authorities have advised vehicle owners to ensure regular mechanical and electrical maintenance, particularly during warm dry spells.

In the wake of the incident, community leaders and grassroots organizations have commended both the swift response of the emergency services and the calm demeanor of the residents and diners, serving as a vital reminder of the importance of community vigilance during unexpected emergencies.

By late evening, regular activity had largely resumed at the hawker centre as stallholders returned to serving customers and clean-up crews cleared the cordoned area. Authorities have requested that any members of the public with video footage or relevant information regarding the start of the fire contact the SCDF or local police to assist in the ongoing inquiry.