A tragic fire engulfed the Rituraj Hotel in central Kolkata's Burrabazar area on April 29, 2025, claiming the lives of at least 14 individuals and injuring 13 others. The fire broke out around 8:15 p.m., sending thick smoke billowing through the building and prompting desperate attempts by guests to escape through windows and ledges.
Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma confirmed the grim toll, stating, "Fourteen bodies have been recovered, and several people have been rescued by the teams." Among the deceased were a woman and two children, with 11 of the victims identified as men. As the fire spread rapidly, firefighters faced significant challenges due to the narrow lanes surrounding the hotel.
Emergency services deployed ten fire engines to combat the blaze, which took nearly eight hours to bring under control. The fire was finally contained at approximately 3:30 a.m. on April 30. During the chaos, some guests reportedly jumped from the fourth floor in a desperate bid to escape the flames, resulting in injuries.
Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes as people clung to narrow ledges and climbed out of windows to flee the inferno. Police confirmed that 60 staff members were present in the hotel at the time of the incident, and the building was occupied by 88 guests across 42 rooms.
As rescue operations continued, Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim and Police Commissioner Goyal visited the site to oversee efforts and assess the situation. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to determine the cause of the fire, which remains undetermined. Commissioner Verma stated, "The cause of the fire could not be ascertained. Our forensic team will conduct an investigation of the building. It has been cordoned off." Authorities have sealed the premises as they work to gather more information.
The incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability, particularly regarding fire safety measures in the city. West Bengal Congress President Subhankar Sarkar criticized the local administration, saying, "This is a tragic incident. A lot of people are still stuck in the building. There was no safety or security... I don’t know what the corporation is doing."
Union Minister and West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar echoed these concerns, urging the state administration to ensure immediate relief for those affected and to conduct a thorough review of fire safety protocols. He stated, "I urge the state administration to immediately rescue those affected, ensure their safety, and provide them with necessary medical and humanitarian assistance. Additionally, I appeal for a thorough review and stricter monitoring of fire safety measures to prevent such tragic incidents in the future."
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also inquired about the incident, directing local officials to respond swiftly and effectively. The pressure is mounting on the Kolkata Municipal Corporation to address the safety lapses that have led to such a catastrophic event.
As families await news about their loved ones, the city grapples with the aftermath of this devastating fire. The investigation will play a crucial role in uncovering the factors that contributed to the tragedy and ensuring that necessary measures are put in place to prevent future occurrences.
This incident highlights the urgent need for improved fire safety standards in Kolkata, a city that has faced similar tragedies in the past. Authorities must take decisive action to protect residents and visitors alike from the dangers posed by inadequate safety measures.
As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, the call for accountability and reform in fire safety practices has never been more urgent. The Rituraj Hotel fire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in preventing such tragedies in the future.
