At least 15 people lost their lives in a massive fire that engulfed a hotel in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata late Tuesday evening, according to authorities. The blaze, which broke out at the facility located in a densely populated area of the city, sent guests scrambling for safety, with some attempting to escape through windows and the rooftop.
Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma confirmed the grim toll on Wednesday morning, stating, “Several people were rescued from rooms and the roof of the hotel. The fire is now under control, and cooling operations are underway.”
Footage aired by the Press Trust of India (PTI) showed thick plumes of smoke and flames shooting out of the building’s upper floors, with several individuals dangerously perched on ledges, trying to avoid the fire. Some guests were seen clambering onto the rooftop in a desperate attempt to escape.
Tragically, local reports indicate that at least one individual died after jumping off the terrace in a failed bid to flee the inferno. “The fire spread very quickly, and there were people shouting from windows, trying to find a way out,” a witness told local media.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, but initial assessments suggest it may have originated in the hotel’s kitchen or basement area before spreading rapidly due to flammable materials and possibly inadequate safety infrastructure.
Building fires are, unfortunately, a frequent occurrence in India, often attributed to poor enforcement of safety codes, lack of fire exits, and outdated electrical systems. The tragedy has once again raised questions about fire preparedness in commercial establishments.
Rescue operations involved both firefighters and police, with some victims being rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Several survivors remain hospitalized, some in critical condition.
The West Bengal state government is expected to launch an investigation into the incident. Officials have promised strict action if violations of fire safety norms are discovered.
As the city mourns the loss of life, calls for stricter enforcement of building safety regulations have grown louder, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reform to prevent such tragedies in the future.
