Mamata Banerjee Vows Strict Action After Kolkata Hotel Fire

In the wake of a deadly fire at Hotel Rituraj in Kolkata’s Burrabazar area that claimed 14 lives, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the site and promised immediate and strict action against those responsible. The fire, which broke out late Tuesday evening, killed several guests, including children, and raised serious concerns over the building’s fire safety compliance.

Mamata Banerjee Fire Response

During her visit, Mamata Banerjee directed the formation of special teams involving police, fire, and administrative departments to carry out surprise inspections across Kolkata and other towns. These teams will check for violations of fire safety norms and submit detailed reports within 15 days. “The panels will prepare reports and submit them to my office in the next 15 days,” she said.

Banerjee made it clear that accountability will extend beyond private owners to include administrative officials who failed to enforce compliance while issuing operating licenses.

Kolkata Hotel Blaze Details

The fire began around 8:10 PM in the six-storey Hotel Rituraj, where 88 guests were staying in 42 rooms. According to preliminary findings, the hotel lacked fundamental fire safety systems. The firefighting pipe was non-functional and had no water connection, leaving the guests trapped without escape or rescue mechanisms.

Banerjee was visibly distressed while inspecting the scene. “This hotel was operating in this area from 1989 but the fire fighting system was not working. I saw the pipe but there is no water connection. Is it not the responsibility of the hotel owner to take care of the guests? They are your guests and you cannot push them to death like this,” she remarked.

Fire Safety Violations Crackdown

The tragedy has triggered a wider investigation into fire safety across the city. Mamata Banerjee directed officials to initiate a detailed survey of high-density zones like Jorasanko and other old city areas. She stressed the importance of public engagement and instructed local bodies to ensure every building adheres to basic safety measures.

As the state mourns the loss of lives, Banerjee’s response signals a no-tolerance stance on negligence. The government aims to implement stronger checks, stricter punishments, and proactive interventions to prevent such disasters from recurring.