15, including 2 children, killed in Kolkata hotel fire; rescue underway

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, though a short circuit is suspected, according to media report

Fifteen people, including a woman and two children, died after a fire broke out at a hotel near Falpatti Machhua in central Kolkata on Tuesday evening. The fire was brought under control, but rescue efforts are on. While the exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, a short circuit is suspected, according to a PTI report.

 

The fire broke out around 8:15 pm at Rituraj Hotel, according to an ANI report. The blaze prompted a massive firefighting effort, with 10 fire tenders rushing to the spot to bring the flames under control. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the incident.

 

   

#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal | A fire breaks out in a building near Falpatti Machhua. Fire tenders present at the spot. Efforts to douse the fire are underway. More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/pmCT6zeGVW

— ANI (@ANI) April 29, 2025

  "Fourteen bodies have been recovered so far, and several others have been rescued," Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma told the reporters.  He stated, "The fire is under control, and rescue is underway. Further investigation is underway. A special team has also been formed for the investigation." 

    The deadly fire sparked panic among locals and hotel guests, and many were seen trying to escape through windows and ledges. 

Political leaders react

  Reacting to the incident, Union Minister and West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar urged the state administration to rescue the affected immediately. He also called for "stricter monitoring" of fire safety measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future. 

    Taking to the social media platform X, he stated, "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." 

I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of a fellow citizen, Mr. Manoj Paswan (aged 40), in a horrific fire at a hotel in the Mechua area of Kolkata’s Burrabazar. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and pray to the Almighty for the Sadhgati of his departed soul.  I…

— Dr. Sukanta Majumdar (@DrSukantaBJP) April 29, 2025

  West Bengal Congress President Subhankar Sarkar slammed the Kolkata Corporation following the incident.  "This is a tragic incident. A fire broke out. A lot of people are still stuck in the building. There was no safety or security. I don't know what the corporation is doing," Sarkar told ANI.               (With inputs from agencies)