At least 14 die in devastating Kolkata hotel fire
- A six-story hotel fire in Kolkata resulted in at least 14 fatalities, with victims identified including men, women, and children.
- Rescue operations managed to save about 25 people, some in critical condition, as they sought escape amid smoke and flames.
- Authorities are investigating the incident and searching for the hotel owner, amid concerns of negligence in building safety standards.
A tragic fire incident occurred on the night of April 29, 2025, at the Rituraj Hotel located in the Barabazar area of Kolkata, India. The blaze engulfed the six-story building, resulting in the deaths of at least 14 individuals, including two children. Emergency responders were able to rescue approximately 25 others, with some victims in critical condition and required immediate medical attention. Eyewitness accounts indicated that panic ensued as guests desperately attempted to escape the smoke-filled structure, with some resorting to waving mobile phone flashlights and seeking refuge on the rooftop. The local media and officials confirmed that the fire caused at least one immediate fatality, with subsequent recovery operations revealing that the victims had perished primarily from suffocation. Among those deceased were 11 men, one woman, and two children, and as of now, eight identities have been confirmed. Reports further indicated a possibility that the death toll might increase. Firefighters deployed six fire engines and utilized hydraulic ladders to assist in the rescue efforts, while local residents lent a hand during the ordeal. The investigation into the cause of the fire is presently underway, with authorities actively searching for the hotel’s owner, who has not been seen since the incident. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, expressed his anguish regarding the tragic loss of life. Preliminary conjectures point towards potential negligence in building safety standards which has historically plagued many establishments in India, where regulations are frequently ignored in the interests of cost-saving. The aftermath of this catastrophic event highlights the ongoing issues related to fire safety in India’s crowded urban environments. Activists have long criticized building contractors for bypassing critical safety measures during construction, leading to preventable tragedies. The incident at Rituraj Hotel serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reforms and strict enforcement of building codes to ensure public safety. It also emphasizes the role of local civic authorities, who are often held accountable for their inaction or complacency regarding safety protocols that could safeguard lives.