Kolkata: A devastating fire engulfed a hotel in the crowded Phoolpatti Machhua area of central Kolkata on Tuesday night, claiming the lives of at least 14 people. According to a senior police official, the blaze broke out around 8:15 PM at the Rituraj Hotel, leaving a trail of death and destruction.
Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma, speaking to reporters at the scene, confirmed the fatalities and stated that rescue teams had managed to save several individuals from the burning building.
Police reports indicate that approximately 60 people were present in the hotel when the fire erupted. Among the 14 deceased are 11 men, one woman, and two children. Authorities have so far identified eight of the bodies. Additionally, 13 people sustained injuries, with 12 having been discharged from the hospital and one still receiving medical treatment.
Challenges in Eastern India’s Largest Wholesale Market
The location of the fire in Bara Bazar, known as the largest wholesale market in eastern India, posed significant challenges for emergency services. PTI reported that ten fire tenders were deployed to combat the blaze, but the congested lanes and heavy foot traffic in the area hampered their operations. Eyewitnesses reported seeing desperate individuals attempting to escape the inferno through windows and narrow passages.
Police Commissioner Verma stated that rescue operations were ongoing, and a special team has been formed to investigate the cause of the fire.
Political Reactions and Calls for Accountability
The tragic incident has triggered political reactions, with West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar urging the state government to provide immediate assistance to the affected and to ensure stringent monitoring of fire safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
In a social media post, Majumdar said, “I urge the state administration to promptly rescue the affected people, ensure their safety, and provide necessary medical and humanitarian assistance. Additionally, I appeal for a review and strict monitoring of fire security measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.”
Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim and Police Commissioner Verma visited the site to assess the situation and oversee the firefighting efforts.
Meanwhile, West Bengal Congress President Somen Mitra criticized the Kolkata Municipal Corporation in the wake of the incident. Speaking to ANI, Mitra stated, “This is a tragic incident, a fire broke out. So many people were trapped inside the building. There was no safety. I don’t know what the corporation is doing.”
The incident has cast a pall over the bustling city, raising serious questions about fire safety regulations and their enforcement in densely populated commercial areas. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire and identify any lapses in safety protocols.
