9 Killed, 6 Injured In Kolkata Hotel Fire As Bengal Orders Statewide Safety Audit

Nine people, including a four-year-old child and two women, were killed and six others injured after a fire broke out in the early hours of Wednesday at a dingy five-storey building housing several hotels on Mirza Ghalib Street in central Kolkata.

West Bengal Cabinet Minister Agnimitra Paul and Minister of State Koushik Chowdhury visited the site after the blaze. Officials said the fire brigade received information at around 2:07 am and began the rescue operation within a minute. Five fire tenders were pressed into service, and around 80 people were rescued from the building.

The deceased included Indian and Bangladeshi nationals, according to officials. The exact identities and nationalities of all the victims were being established. The Mirza Ghalib Street and New Market area is frequented by visitors from Bangladesh, including people who travel to Kolkata for medical treatment.

Officials said smoke inhalation or asphyxia appeared to be the main cause of death, with burn injuries not found on most of the bodies. Dense smoke rapidly engulfed the building, making it difficult for occupants to find their way out.

The building's cramped layout has raised serious concerns about fire safety. Four to five hotels reportedly operated on each floor, while many cramped rooms had no windows, leaving occupants with limited ventilation and escape options. Chowdhury said a couple trapped in one room could be rescued through the only available window, highlighting the difficulties faced by those trying to escape.

A short circuit is being considered as a possible cause of the blaze, but authorities said the exact cause would be established through investigation. A forensic team has examined the building, while police have initiated proceedings against the absconding owner. A Special Investigation Team will examine whether the hotels had the necessary fire clearances and complied with construction and safety norms.

The tragedy has prompted the West Bengal government to order a statewide fire-safety audit of hotels and guest houses. Authorities will scrutinise fire clearances, licences and safety arrangements and examine how establishments operating in cramped premises obtained permissions.

The Kolkata fire came just two days after nine people were killed in another hotel fire in Tarapith, intensifying concerns over safety standards in West Bengal's hospitality sector. The statewide audit is intended to identify violations and help prevent similar tragedies.