Kolkata Market Fire

Kolkata Fire

A major fire broke out at a multi-storey market complex in the Sealdah area, Kolkata leaving at least 18 people dead and several others critically injured. 15 people have so far been rescued from the fire. There is fear that the death toll may rise up. The fire broke out in the complex early morning at 3.50 am when victims were fast asleep said the police. The injured people were taken to the state-run NRS and Medical College hospitals.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the spot where the fire took place and said that the market complex building not only had shops but also had families living there. She said that this was a major concern and suggested that these families be moved to night shelters.

Fire Services Minister Javed Khan, said that 26 fire tenders fought the fire over a time period of 3 hours to bring the situation under control. Fire brigade personnel fear that many people might be trapped inside the market, which houses shops and paper godowns. The cause of the fire and the damage occurred is under investigation said the police.

Javed Khan said that there was no fire safety arrangement in the market complex and blamed he the market authorities for the fire accident. He also said that the entire market building complex was unauthorized and illegal and most of the entry and exit gates were locked, resulting in people getting trapped inside.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has ordered an enquiry into the situation and has announced a compensation of 2 lakh rupees to the kin of each of the dead.

Last Updated on : 27 February 2013