What Compensation Has Bengal CM Announced for Victims of the Kolkata Hotel Fire?
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Synopsis
In a heart-wrenching incident, a devastating fire in a Kolkata hotel left 14 dead. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has announced compensation for victims and their families, reflecting a swift governmental response. This tragic event raises critical questions about fire safety regulations and the responsibilities of property owners.
Key Takeaways
- Compensation of Rs 2 lakh for deceased's families.
- Rs 50,000 for each injured person.
- Investigations into the fire cause are ongoing.
- Lack of fire safety measures raised concerns.
- Community cooperation was instrumental in rescue efforts.
Kolkata, April 30 (NationPress) West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared compensation for the families of those who tragically lost their lives and for those injured in the catastrophic fire at a hotel on Madan Mohan Burman Street in central Kolkata. The blaze erupted on Tuesday night, claiming the lives of 14 individuals by Wednesday morning.
The compensation proposed by Chief Minister Banerjee is consistent with the amount that Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced earlier that day.
“The state government will provide an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased, while those injured will receive Rs 50,000 each. I extend my heartfelt condolences and solidarity,” stated Chief Minister Banerjee on her official X handle.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi also declared an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the PMNRF for each deceased's family and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
In her statement, the Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the local community for their assistance during the rescue efforts and confirmed that an investigation into the fire's cause is underway.
“Preliminary reports indicate that the victims suffered from suffocation or jumped to escape. Further investigations are ongoing,” her message stated.
The Chief Minister is currently in Digha, East Midnapore, with her Cabinet, inaugurating a new Lord Jagannath Temple inspired by the famous Shree Jagannath Dham in Puri, Odisha.
Despite being away, she assured that she is closely monitoring the fire situation in Kolkata from Digha.
“I am continuously overseeing the aftermath of the tragic fire incident at a private hotel (Rituraj) in the Burra Bazar area and commend the Fire Services and police for rescuing nearly 99 individuals from dire circumstances,” her statement continued.
Concerns have already emerged regarding the absence of adequate fire safety measures in the building.
The hotel's owner has reportedly been missing since the fire broke out in the six-story building on Tuesday night, with the hotel staff also unaware of his location.
Preliminary investigations have uncovered three significant lapses concerning safety protocols by the hotel management, including insufficient internal fire extinguishing systems, inadequate ventilation, and a lack of alternative entry and exit routes.
Point of View
It is crucial to report on this incident with sensitivity and respect for the victims. The government’s prompt response, including compensation measures, highlights the need for thorough investigations into fire safety regulations. The community's cooperation during the rescue efforts is commendable, but it raises pertinent questions about building safety standards in urban areas.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What compensation has been announced for the victims?
The West Bengal government will provide an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 to each injured person.
What caused the hotel fire?
Investigations are ongoing, but preliminary reports suggest that victims suffered from suffocation or jumped to escape.
How many people were affected by the fire?
The fire resulted in 14 fatalities and injured numerous others, with around 99 individuals rescued.
What safety measures were lacking at the hotel?
Preliminary findings indicate insufficient internal fire extinguishing measures, inadequate ventilation, and lack of alternative exits.
Is there an investigation underway?
Yes, the authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire and the hotel’s compliance with safety regulations.
