Kolkata: The narrow, labyrinthine lanes of Kolkata’s oldest districts became a scene of tragedy on Tuesday night as fire engulfed a six-story hotel, claiming at least 15 lives. The inferno, erupting in a congested neighbourhood, trapped scores of guests, many of whom succumbed to the thick, acrid smoke that filled the building. Local authorities confirmed that the primary cause of death for the majority of victims was suffocation, a grim testament to the suffocating intensity of the blaze and the challenges of evacuation in such a densely packed area.
“14 casualties have been reported so far. An SIT has been formed to probe the cause of the fire and to check the safety measures that were in place. The investigation will also look into the difficulties faced by the guests while evacuating from the building,” Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma told reporters.
Amidst the chaos and panic, one desperate soul attempted to escape the raging flames by leaping from the hotel, tragically falling to their death. This single, harrowing incident underscores the desperate circumstances faced by those trapped inside, highlighting the critical need for swift and effective emergency response in such densely populated urban environments.
The incident has sent shockwaves through Kolkata, raising serious questions about fire safety regulations and their enforcement, particularly in older buildings situated in congested zones. The narrow streets, characteristic of these historic neighbourhoods, often impede the movement of fire tenders and rescue vehicles, exacerbating the challenges faced by emergency responders.
Authorities have launched an investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire and to assess potential lapses in safety protocols. The loss of life serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present dangers in densely populated urban settings and the vital importance of stringent fire safety measures and accessible evacuation routes. The focus now shifts to supporting the bereaved families and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent such tragedies in the future.