Kolkata erupted in grief following the devastating fire that ravaged two warehouses in Anandapur, claiming at least eight lives and leaving several others missing. In a swift response, the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has announced a substantial financial aid package of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of those killed or unaccounted for in the tragedy.
Urban Development Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim made the announcement during his visit to the fire site on Tuesday afternoon. Speaking to reporters amidst the charred remains, Hakim assured that compensation cheques would be handed over as soon as bodies or body parts are identified. ‘Legal procedures must be followed,’ he emphasized, revealing that police would seek Calcutta High Court permission on Wednesday for DNA testing to confirm identities.
The blaze broke out around 3 AM on Monday in two adjacent godowns – one belonging to a decorator and the other to a momo company. Workers from various districts were toiling late into the night on floral decorations and other preparations. Many were asleep when the inferno struck, trapping them inside. Firefighting efforts continued even 36 hours later, with flames still flickering in pockets of debris.
Police sources confirmed eight fatalities so far, but the toll could rise as search operations persist. Desperate families scour hospitals, police stations, and the site for any news of their loved ones. Questions swirl around the fire’s origin, which remains unknown, and the glaring absence of safety measures in the warehouses.
Authorities have registered two FIRs and summoned the decorator godown owner, Gangadhar Das, for questioning. Concerns mount over the structures’ legality, allegedly built on filled wetlands. Hakim dismissed such claims, stating, ‘Snatching someone’s livelihood isn’t right. I don’t know if it was a wetland or not.’
This tragedy underscores the urgent need for stringent fire safety regulations and building compliance in industrial areas. As investigations deepen, the government pledges full support to the bereaved families, vowing justice and prevention of future mishaps.