The fire was started by a spark from a PLN transformer on February 19, 2003. In a flash, flames devoured nearly all of Tanah Abang market, which is known as the wholesale center for textiles in Jakarta. Of the market's six blocks, Blocks A, C, D and E were badly damaged, and at least 2,420 booths were destroyed.

Less than a year later reconstruction of the market began. The Jakarta government built Block A, which had totally burned down, with its