Following a major fire accident at a hotel in central Kolkata, the fire department has taken strict action. The fire department has issued show-cause notices to 17 more hotels in the New Market area. Management of these hotels must reply within 24 hours regarding safety lapses. Officials stated that hotels could be shut down if replies are not satisfactory. The tragic fire at Shikha Inn on Mirza Gali Street caused the deaths of nine people due to smoke suffocation, including seven Bangladeshi citizens. Following this incident, authorities intensified security checks in hotels and guest houses across central Kolkata.
The fresh notices cover 17 hotels located on Marquis Street, Mirza Gali Street, SN Banerjee Road, and Topsia Road. Hotel operators must explain why their establishments should not be closed down despite safety standard flaws. Earlier, authorities also issued notices to nine guest houses and four restaurants on Mirza Gali Street, demanding a reply within 24 hours. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation and fire department have increased inspections in hotels, guest houses, and restaurants in and around the New Market area.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the fire started at the reception area of Shikha Inn between 1.30 AM and 2.00 AM. Thick smoke quickly spread to the hotel rooms. The only narrow exit near the reception became a major obstacle for trapped guests. Kolkata Police formed a special investigation team and arrested one person named Abu Zafar who had taken the hotel on rent from owner Bireswar Mitra. The hotel owner remains absconding.
