Dubai, Jul 13 (Emirates 247) : A number of dhows were on fire in Deira Creek on Monday afternoon.

Eyewitnesses told Emirates 24l7 that the fire erupted at around 3pm and apparently three to four boats were on fire at the time of writing this news.

As many as 10 civil defence and four rescue vehicles were on the scene queuing along the Creek to put out the blaze

A Civil Defence official said they received call at 3.04pm and five teams were immediately dispatched to combat the blaze which is still burning.

The black smoke billowing from the burning dhows can be seen as far as from Sheikh Zayed Road.

Residents said ashes from the burning dhows reached Oud Metha balconies.

Motorists have been advised to avoid Al Maktoum Bridge crossing due to heavy traffic.

Eyewitnesses told this website that two boats with a lot of supplies – mainly food items – have caught fire and cargo can be seen floating in the sea.

The firefighters were struggling to put out blaze.