Tarapith Hotel Fire: Death Toll Rises to 9, Owner Arrested in Safety Probe

The death toll in the Tarapith hotel fire in West Bengal’s Birbhum district has risen to nine, with police stepping up their investigation into alleged fire-safety lapses at the pilgrimage town’s hotel, officials said.

The fire broke out at around 4.30 am on Monday at a four-storey hotel in Tarapith, while most guests were asleep. Thick smoke rapidly spread through the building, trapping several people on the upper floors and making evacuation difficult.

Of the 43 people staying at the hotel when the blaze erupted, several were rescued and taken to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital. Some suffered burns, while others were treated for asphyxiation caused by smoke inhalation.

Police have arrested the hotel owner and taken action against other members of the hotel management as part of the probe into alleged violations of fire-safety norms. Investigators are examining the building’s firefighting arrangements, emergency exits and electrical installations.

Hotel officials had initially claimed that the blaze was caused by a short circuit near the reception area after an electrical component caught fire. However, authorities have not yet established the exact cause.

The tragedy has prompted the Birbhum district administration to order a special safety audit of hotels, lodges, guest houses and homestays across Tarapith. The inspection is particularly significant ahead of the Kaushiki Amavasya festival, which is expected to draw thousands of pilgrims and visitors.

Reports said several of the victims were from Meghalaya, including children, who had travelled to Tarapith to offer prayers at the famous Tara temple.

The incident has also highlighted concerns over fire preparedness in pilgrimage destinations, where crowded accommodation facilities can increase evacuation risks.

Authorities have assured that those found responsible for negligence will face action under the law. The investigation into the fire and the circumstances surrounding the deaths is continuing.