Kolkata Hotel Fire Claims at Least 14 Lives
In a devastating incident, a fire has engulfed the Rituraj Hotel in central Kolkata, resulting in the loss of at least 14 lives, as reported by local police authorities. The blaze erupted on Tuesday evening and was extinguished following a substantial response that included six fire engines.
Details of the Incident
According to senior police officer Manoj Kumar Verma, the cause of the fire remains unclear as investigations are ongoing. Eyewitness accounts shared through various media channels depict harrowing scenes of individuals attempting to escape the inferno through windows and narrow ledges. Tragically, one person reportedly died after jumping off a balcony in an attempt to flee the flames.
Government Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragic loss of life, stating on social media platform X that he is “anguished” by the incident.
Fire Safety Concerns in India
This incident underscores a broader issue concerning fire safety laws in India. Numerous fires have occurred across the country, often attributed to the neglect of building regulations and safety codes. Activists have long criticized builders for compromising safety standards to reduce costs and have held civic authorities accountable for their lapses in oversight.
Historical Context
This disaster is not an isolated event; similar tragedies have taken place in the past. For instance, a massive fire in New Delhi in 2022 resulted in 27 fatalities, sparking calls for reform in fire safety legislation and enforcement.
Conclusion
The tragic events at the Rituraj Hotel highlight the urgent need to assess and enforce fire safety regulations in buildings across India to prevent similar incidents in the future. As investigations continue, the focus will be on ensuring that such tragedies do not recur.