Deadly Kolkata Hotel Fire Claims 15 Lives, Including Children (video)

A fierce fire ripped through a hotel in the Indian city of Kolkata killing at least 15 people

At least 15 people, including two children and a woman, lost their lives in a devastating fire that broke out at the Rituraj Hotel in central Kolkata, India. The massive blaze injured several others and forced desperate guests to climb out of windows and onto the rooftop to escape the smoke and flames.

The incident occurred around 8:15 PM local time on Tuesday, while 88 guests were staying in the budget hotel, which has a total of 42 rooms. Panic ensued as the fire rapidly spread, trapping occupants in their rooms. Eyewitness accounts and video footage captured terrified individuals using their phone flashlights to signal for help while clinging to window ledges.

Indian firefighters work to extinguish a fire that broke out at a Rituraj Hotel

Emergency services responded swiftly, with firefighters working tirelessly through the night to contain the fire, which was eventually brought under control by approximately 4:00 AM on Wednesday. Hydraulic ladders were deployed to rescue guests stranded on the upper floors and rooftop.

Police Chief Manoj Verma confirmed the death toll and described the scene as resembling a "gas chamber," noting that many victims appeared to have died due to suffocation. He also announced that a formal investigation had been launched to determine the cause of the blaze. A specialized team has been formed to carry out the inquiry.

Police launched a probe into the deadly blaze

Fire department personnel reported that at least a dozen individuals suffered burn injuries and were receiving treatment. A state official described the event as an "unfortunate incident," emphasizing that although the fire brigade attempted to rescue everyone, some perished due to severe smoke inhalation.

A hotel occupant being rescued by the fire service

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the tragedy, stating he was "anguished by the loss of lives," and announced financial assistance for the families of the deceased.

Tragically, deadly fires in commercial and residential buildings are not uncommon in India, often attributed to inadequate fire safety standards and insufficient emergency preparedness. In a related incident in 2021, five people were killed in a fire at the Serum Institute of India, the world's largest COVID-19 vaccine manufacturer.

Video of people being rescued from the fire

The fire blazing through the hotel as people watch in horror