Afghanistan, June 12 -- A major fire broke out on Friday in Mazar-i-Sharif, the capital of Afghanistan's northern Balkh province, with witnesses reporting thick smoke, powerful explosions and ongoing efforts to contain the blaze.

Residents stated that the fire started in the Dasht-e Shor area near Journalist Square in the city's second district and continued burning for several hours. The cause of the incident was not immediately known.

The affected area is located near several important facilities, including medical colleges, a veterinary clinic, the former military hospital and a number of private healthcare centers. Residents said the smoke could be seen from distant parts of the city.

Videos circulating on social media showed large f...