Kolkata: The Birbhum District Administration in West Bengal has ordered the indefinite closure of 15 hotels located near the iconic Goddess Tara Temple at Tarapith following a devastating fire at the Bideshini hotel that claimed nine lives.
The action came after random safety inspections of hotels and lodges in the temple-adjacent area. Officials found that 15 properties lacked adequate fire safety arrangements and alternate exit routes needed for emergency evacuation.
The district administration issued the closure notices after police arrested Bideshini hotel’s main owner, Probit Paul. His son and co-owner, Kalyan Paul, was also arrested on Monday.
Fire Safety Concerns Raised
The fire tragedy raised serious questions over the safety arrangements at hotels and lodges that have mushroomed around the famous pilgrimage site.
Local residents alleged that several hotels operating in the area did not have proper fire safety measures.
Following the incident, the district administration conducted random checks across hotels and lodges near the temple. Officials warned that strict legal action would be taken against establishments that fail to provide mandatory fire safety facilities and alternate evacuation routes.
An administrative official said the safety of thousands of pilgrims visiting Tarapith every day remains the top priority.
Training for Hotel Staff
Rampurhat Sub-Divisional Officer Rathod Ashwin Babu Singh said the administration had already issued closure notices to eight other hotels on Monday.
He said notices had now been issued to 15 more hotel authorities and that training would be organised for managers and staff of hotels across Tarapith ahead of the festive season.
The administration’s move comes amid heightened concerns over fire safety at one of West Bengal’s prominent pilgrimage destinations.