Nine dead as fire engulfs Central Kolkata hotel, guests allege lack of firefighting equipment

A fire broke out at the Central Hotel in Kolkata, resulting in the deaths of nine occupants. The incident sparked immediate panic among guests, many of whom attempted to evacuate as flames spread through the building.

Emergency services arrived at the scene and worked to contain the blaze, rescuing several individuals who managed to escape. However, nine victims succumbed to the fire before they could be rescued.

Surviving guests have publicly claimed that the hotel did not have adequate fire‑fighting equipment, raising questions about safety compliance and emergency preparedness at the property.

Local authorities have opened an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and to assess whether negligence contributed to the loss of life.