Kolkata Police has formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the death of nine people in a fire at a hotel on Mirza Ghalib Street in Kolkata’s New Market area.

 

The seven-member SIT is being headed by DCDD Sparsh Nilangi. Two women and a child are among those killed. Sixteen injured people are undergoing treatment at SSKM Hospital.

 

Industry Minister Tapas Roy and Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Pal visited the spot this morning. Agnimitra Pal said around 80 people were rescued following prompt administrative action.

 

She questioned how the hotel was allowed to operate despite allegedly lacking adequate fire-safety arrangements and an emergency exit. She also raised questions over the granting of its trade licence and CESC electricity connection.

 

Fire Services Minister Kaushik Chowdhury has spoken to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari about the incident. Forensic experts are expected to visit the site today. The hotel manager has been detained for questioning, while the owner remains untraced.

 

The fire broke out at around two this morning on the third floor of the five-storey building, located close to a fire station. Four fire engines were deployed and brought the blaze under control.

 

Local sources say such hotels are often used by people from other states and foreign countries who come to Kolkata for medical treatment.