At least seven pilgrims were killed and several others critically injured after a devastating fire broke out at Hotel Bideshinii in Tarapith, Birbhum, early Monday morning. The hotel, a G+4 building, is located close to the Tarapith police station and was housing several devotees visiting the famous temple town.
According to reports, the fire broke out at around 4:30 am on the ground floor, reportedly near the reception area. Most of the guests were asleep when the blaze erupted, allowing thick smoke to quickly spread through the building.
The situation became particularly dangerous as smoke moved rapidly towards the upper floors. Reports said toxic smoke from burning materials, including the false ceiling and fibreglass, caused severe asphyxiation among guests.
One survivor, Munmun Mondal, described the terrifying moments, saying, “Suddenly the entire hotel was engulfed with smoke. We couldn't breathe and couldn't find an escape route immediately.”
Firefighters and police teams rushed to the hotel after receiving information about the blaze. The fire was eventually brought under control, while injured guests were rescued from the building and taken to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
News reports said rescue personnel faced major difficulties because dense smoke had filled the corridors and staircases. Search operations were also carried out to determine whether anyone else remained trapped inside.
Short Circuit Suspected, Investigation Underway
A preliminary assessment by the fire department suggested that an electrical short circuit may have triggered the blaze, although officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause. Police have begun an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire.
Questions have also been raised over fire-safety arrangements at the hotel. According to officials cited by The Times of India, the establishment reportedly had little or no basic fire detection and prevention equipment, a concern that could become a key part of the investigation.
Tarapith Crowded With Pilgrims
The tragedy occurred on the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan, when Tarapith was witnessing a significant influx of devotees. Many of those staying at the hotel were pilgrims who had travelled to the temple town to offer prayers.
The deadly blaze has cast a pall of grief over Tarapith as authorities continue to assess the damage, investigate the cause and verify the full extent of the casualties. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
