West Bengal: Several killed as massive fire engulfs Kolkata warehouse

Kolkata: A heart-wrenching tragedy struck Anandapur (Nazirabad) in Kolkata on the morning of Republic Day 2026. A massive fire engulfed the factory and warehouse of a popular momo chain and a decorator's warehouse, quickly spreading out of control. Even after 15 hours, the fire has not been completely extinguished.

What has the administration said?

The administration has confirmed seven deaths so far, while 20 people are still missing. Family members have filed missing person reports at the local police station. Twelve fire tenders have been continuously working to douse the fire, which started early Monday morning. The presence of a large quantity of flammable materials in the warehouses caused the fire to spread rapidly.

What did eyewitnesses say?

According to eyewitnesses, the flames were so fierce that those trapped inside had no chance to escape. According to police sources, the recovered bodies are so badly charred that identification is currently impossible. JCB machines and robotic cameras are being used to clear the debris.

This tragedy has exposed serious security lapses. According to the family of employee Pankaj Haldar, Pankaj had called them at 3:30 AM, saying, "The main gate of the factory is locked from the outside, and we are trying to break through the wall to get out."

This desperate plea from the employees suffocating in the smoke highlights the insensitivity of the management. The Chief Minister's office is monitoring the situation. The police have launched an investigation into the allegations of the 'locked gate'; if confirmed, a case of culpable homicide will be registered against the owners.

How did the tragedy take place?

According to reports, the night shift was underway at the momo factory-cum-warehouse on Sunday night. Around 3 AM on Monday, flames suddenly erupted. The large quantities of palm oil and cooking gas cylinders present in the factory fueled the fire, leading to explosions and intensifying the blaze. Rescue operations are being significantly hampered by narrow lanes and thick smoke. It is being reported that the warehouse lacked adequate fire safety measures.

What happened at Mallik Bazar?

Amidst the Anandapur incident, a fire also broke out on Monday in a four-story building in Mallik Bazar, a busy area of ​​the city, causing panic. The building is located in a densely populated area. Three fire engines managed to bring the fire under control after considerable effort.

Due to the narrow lanes, firefighters had to spray water from the roof of an adjacent building. As a precaution, the entire building and surrounding houses were evacuated. The cause of the fire is initially believed to be a short circuit, although an investigation is underway. No injuries have been reported in this incident so far.