A catastrophic fire engulfed the Rituraj Hotel in Kolkata, India, on the evening of April 29, 2025, resulting in the deaths of at least 14 people, including two children. The blaze, which broke out around 7:30 p.m. local time, rapidly spread through the six-story building located in the densely populated Burrabazar area.
Fire Breaks Out Amidst Evening Rush
The fire reportedly originated near the kitchen on the first floor and quickly consumed the building, trapping guests and staff. At the time of the incident, approximately 50 people were inside the hotel, which has 45 rooms.
Thick smoke and flames made escape difficult, leading many to seek refuge on balconies and narrow ledges. Firefighters employed hydraulic ladders to rescue several individuals, while others were evacuated from the rooftop. Tragically, one person died after jumping from the roof in an attempt to escape the inferno.
Victims and Injuries
Among the deceased were ten men, one woman, and two girls aged 10 and 3. The victims were primarily found on the staircase, with asphyxiation suspected as the main cause of death. Thirteen people were hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the fire, though only one remains under medical care.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings suggest significant lapses in fire safety measures. The building’s glass enclosure reportedly trapped heat and smoke, exacerbating the situation. Fire and Emergency Services Minister Sujit Bose stated that the hotel’s fire safety systems failed to operate during the crisis.
A Special Investigation Team has been formed to determine the exact cause of the fire and to assess compliance with safety regulations. Legal action is pending against those found negligent.
National Response
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his anguish over the tragedy and extended condolences to the victims’ families. He announced ex gratia payments of ₹200,000 to the next of kin of the deceased and ₹50,000 to each of the injured from the Prime Minister National Relief Fund.
The incident has reignited concerns over fire safety standards in India, where building code violations are common. Activists have long criticized the lack of enforcement and oversight in ensuring the safety of residential and commercial structures.
Ongoing Efforts
Rescue operations continued into the early hours of April 30, with firefighters working tirelessly to ensure no one remained trapped inside the building. The forensic team is expected to examine the site for further clues, and efforts are ongoing to identify all victims and locate the hotel’s owner.
As the city mourns the loss of life, authorities are under pressure to enforce stricter safety regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
