Kolkata: A major fire broke out at a car parts warehouse on R.N. Mukherjee Road, just a few hundred metres from Lalbazar — the Kolkata Police Headquarters — on Thursday morning, officials said.

Six fire engines have been pressed into service to douse the flame, which broke out at 10.30 a.m. Efforts are underway to bring the fire under control.

According to local residents, the fire started on the first floor of a warehouse, which is a three-storey building. Witnesses reported seeing thick black smoke billowing from the premises before joining the rescue efforts and helping to evacuate those inside.

They also attempted to save goods stored in the warehouse, but could not empty it before the flames spread. So far, no one has been reported trapped inside.

Flames Spread to Adjacent Godown; Short Circuit Suspected

The fire department was informed immediately, and five fire engines rushed to the spot initially, with one more joining later. However, due to the congested area, firefighting teams are facing challenges in dousing the blaze.

The fire, which originated in a warehouse storing car parts, later spread to an adjacent godown due to the presence of flammable materials. Firefighters have been breaking glass panes to release accumulated smoke from the building.

Visibility in the area has been severely affected due to dense smoke. Officials are continuing efforts to clear the air and contain the fire.

No Casualties Reported; Probe Underway

So far, there have been no reports of casualties or injuries in the incident. The preliminary assumption, according to officials, is that the fire was caused by a short circuit, though the exact cause will be confirmed after a detailed investigation.

“We are trying to bring the situation under control as soon as possible,” said a fire official.