At least five people have died, while the health of several others has been affected after a fire broke out at a hotel near Tarapith police station in Birbhum district of West Bengal early this morning.
According to reports, the fire first broke out at the hotel’s reception and quickly spread through the four-storey building. Most of the guests were asleep when the fire broke out.
The hotel was reportedly packed with pilgrims who had arrived in Tarapith, regarded as one of the most prominent and historically significant religious centres in the state, to mark the last Monday of the month of Shravan.
The hotel owner has claimed that the fire was caused by a short circuit. Firefighters and police reached the spot and launched rescue operations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy in Birbhum, West Bengal. Sharing a social media post, Mr Modi extended his condolences to those who have lost their loved ones.
The Prime Minister also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. He further assured that the local administration is assisting those affected in the mishap.
