TRADERS have once again set up shop at a market gutted by fire just over two weeks ago.

The Isa Town traditional market is back in business after temporary stalls were erected near the site where fire gutted more than 500 market stands on July 15.

Merchants whose goods were destroyed in the blaze have filed claims for compensation at the Central Municipality, but are still waiting for authorities to come back with a financial package.

"We are selling our goods again inside the market, some of these goods were partially damaged in the fire," said one trader who asked to be identified as Abu Jamal.

He was selling watches, paintings and second hand items in a temporary tent near Ramez Trading Centre, along with other businessmen.

"It is hot as there is no electricity and people are fasting. So traders gather in the morning or later in the evening to sell their goods," he added.

Another Bahraini trader said some shops that escaped damage had still not reopened.

"These traders have not yet decided when to open their shops and they continue to be closed," he said.

"We are now waiting for the Friday market, when all traders are expected to show up to sell their items."

A total of 509 stalls, operated by Bahrainis and expatriates, were gutted in last month's fire, which resulted in losses estimated at hundreds of thousands of dinars.

The fire reportedly started at a stall selling electronics, although the exact cause remains unknown.

The area where the fire started has been cleared but remains cordoned off, while Civil Defence and police patrols continue to be stationed at the market. However, the entrance to the market is now open to the public. sandy@gdn.com.bh