What Caused the Major Fire at the Printing Press on Amherst Street in Kolkata?
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Synopsis
A major fire erupted at a printing press in Kolkata's Amherst Street, causing significant smoke but fortunately no casualties. Firefighters faced challenges due to the area's congestion while battling the flames. Learn more about the incident and its implications in this detailed report.
Key Takeaways
- Major fire at a printing press in Kolkata's Amherst Street.
- Firefighters faced challenges due to congestion.
- Initial reports suggest a possible short circuit caused the fire.
- No casualties have been reported.
- Local shops sustained damage from the fire.
Kolkata, Oct 23 (NationPress) A significant fire erupted at a printing press located in the Amherst Street region of north Kolkata. Fortunately, so far, no casualties have been reported, according to local authorities.
Seven fire engines were deployed to the site to combat the flames. Firefighters were tirelessly working to contain the blaze. As a result of the fire, the entire neighborhood was shrouded in thick black smoke. Thankfully, no injuries have occurred.
The incident took place as residents were engaged in preparations for the beloved festival of 'Bhai Phonta (Bhai dooj)'.
Due to the area's congestion, firefighters faced significant hurdles in extinguishing the flames.
Some firefighters were observed wearing gas masks as the dark smoke enveloped the surroundings. The cause of the fire remains unclear, but initial assessments from the fire department suggest it may have originated from a short circuit.
"We are striving to control the fire. The excessive smoke is creating challenges for our team," stated a fire brigade officer.
Local residents reported seeing black smoke billowing from the printing press earlier in the morning. The local fire department and police were promptly notified. Initially, three fire engines arrived sequentially at the scene. However, due to the tight conditions, firefighters had to walk several meters to reach the site. Subsequently, four additional fire engines arrived.
Considering it was a printing press, a substantial amount of combustible materials were stored on the premises, officials indicated. This factor contributed to the rapid and intense spread of the fire, filling the vicinity with thick black smoke.
According to police reports, multiple nearby shops sustained damage due to the fire. However, firefighters continued their efforts to prevent further spread.
Just two days earlier, a massive fire had broken out at a dye factory in Khardah, North 24 Parganas district, which also spread to an adjacent T-shirt manufacturing facility. Approximately 20 fire engines were deployed to extinguish that blaze.
Point of View
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of fire safety in densely populated urban areas. While the quick response from firefighters prevented casualties, it underscores the need for improved safety measures in places with significant flammable materials. NationPress remains committed to bringing attention to such critical issues.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at the printing press?
Initial investigations suggest that the fire may have been caused by a short circuit. However, the exact cause is still under investigation.
Were there any injuries reported?
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in relation to the fire at the printing press.
How many fire engines responded to the incident?
A total of seven fire engines were deployed to the scene to extinguish the flames.
What safety measures are in place for printing presses?
Printing presses should adhere to strict safety protocols, including regular inspections and proper storage of flammable materials, to prevent incidents like this.
Has this type of incident happened before in Kolkata?
Yes, similar incidents have occurred in Kolkata, highlighting the ongoing challenges of fire safety in densely populated areas.
