A devastating fire erupted at the Rituraj Hotel in Kolkata’s congested Burrabazar area. The fire erupted on Tuesday night at around 8:15 pm. The incident left at least 14 people dead and 13 others injured.
The massive fire and the aftermath has triggered panic among guests and staff. Several trapped in the hotel attempted to escape through windows and narrow ledges as smoke rapidly filled the building.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Congested Lanes
Manoj Kumar Verma, Kolkata Police Commissioner stated that 60 hotel staff members were on the premises at the time of the fire. Ten fire engines were dispatched to the scene to contain the fire. However the rescue efforts were significantly hindered by the narrow lanes in the Falpatti Machhua zone. The region is one of the busiest commercial hubs in eastern India.
Additional Commissioner of Police Subhankar Sinha Sarkar told reporters that “Fourteen bodies have been recovered and several people have been rescued by the teams. “The fire is now under control.”
The authorities further stated that despite multiple challenges, several people were rescued. Eventually the blaze was brought under control. Of the 13 injured, one person remains hospitalized while the others have been treated and discharged.
Investigation Underway to Determine Cause
Following the devastating incident the authorities have launched a probe into the cause of the fire. According to reports a special investigation team has been formed. So far eight of the 14 deceased have been identified.
Political Leaders Demand Accountability
Union Minister and West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar expressed deep concern over the tragedy. The minister called for urgent relief and stricter fire safety enforcement in the state.
In a post on X he wrote, “I urge the state administration to immediately rescue those affected, ensure their safety, and provide them with necessary medical and humanitarian assistance. Additionally, I appeal for a thorough review and stricter monitoring of fire safety measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future”.
Furthermore, West Bengal Congress President Subhankar Sarkar hit out at the city administration. While talking to the media he said “This is a tragic incident. A fire broke out. A lot of people were stuck in the building. There was no safety or security. I don’t know what the corporation is doing”.
Officials Visit Scene
In addition, the Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim and Police Commissioner Goyal visited the site where the incident occurred late in the night. The visit was to oversee firefighting and rescue efforts.
