Massive Fire Erupts at Kolkata Hotel, 9 Killed and 6 Injured

August 19, 2026

Kolkata: At least 9 people, including a child, were killed in a massive fire at a hotel in Kolkata early Wednesday morning. The incident occurred in the New Market area near Free School Street.

The fire broke out around 2 a.m., trapping several people inside. Fire engines and disaster management teams arrived at the scene and began rescue operations.

Smoke hinders rescue efforts

According to fire officials, the hotel was filled with thick smoke, making it difficult to reach the upper floors. After considerable effort, the fire was brought under control and cooling operations were initiated.

According to the fire department, all the deceased were reportedly Bangladeshi nationals who had come to Kolkata for medical treatment. Police stated that the possibility of more casualties cannot be ruled out.

Cause of fire still unclear

According to preliminary information, the fire is suspected to have been caused by an air conditioner explosion. However, the exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

The priority for officials is to safely evacuate those trapped in the hotel and investigate the cause of the fire.

An accident also occurred in Birbhum two days ago

This incident in Kolkata comes just two days after another tragic hotel fire in West Bengal’s Birbhum district.

On August 17, at least eight people were killed and several others injured in an early morning fire at Hotel Bideshini near the Tarapith Temple.

The fire broke out on the ground floor of the hotel around 4:30 a.m. Five members of a family from Meghalaya, including two children, died in the accident. The injured were taken to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital for treatment.