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4d ago

Kolkata Hotel Fire Kills 14; Owner and Manager Arrested for Negligence

A blaze at Rituraj Hotel in Burrabazar highlighted severe fire safety violations, leaving 14 dead and prompting criminal charges and government compensation for victims.

Central Kolkata hotel fire: Fire fighters used hydraulic ladders to rescue those who assembled in the balconies.
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Kolkata hotel fire: 14 dead, 13 injured as fire sweeps through Rituraj Hotel in Burrabazar
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Overview

  • The fire broke out on April 29 at the six-storey Rituraj Hotel in Kolkata’s congested Burrabazar area, killing 14 people, including two children, mostly from smoke inhalation.
  • Rescue efforts were hampered by narrow lanes, defunct fire safety systems, and blocked exits, with firefighters deploying 10 engines and hydraulic ladders to evacuate trapped guests.
  • The hotel’s owner, Akash Chawla, and manager, Gaurav Kapoor, were arrested under the West Bengal Fire Services Act for alleged negligence and safety violations.
  • A Special Investigation Team has been formed to examine the suspected short circuit, regulatory lapses, and evacuation challenges that exacerbated the tragedy.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced ex gratia payments of ₹2 lakh for the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.