Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, May 1, 2025 : In the aftermath of the devastating fire that claimed 14 lives at a Barabazar hotel on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the site on Thursday to assess the situation and issue a strong message of concern regarding public safety.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of the morning, left most victims dead from suffocation. As emergency services struggled to gain access to the building, the hotel’s doors were reportedly closed, impeding the fire brigade’s efforts to rescue those trapped inside. The hotel has since been sealed by authorities.
During her visit, the Chief Minister expressed grave concern over the state of several surrounding buildings, many of which, like the hotel, were in dire need of renovation. She called for immediate discussions between the municipality, fire department, and police to find a solution that would allow residents of these dilapidated houses to stay elsewhere temporarily during the renovation process.
“There is a lot of plastic stored in some places around here, and they don’t listen to the warnings. I am not against anyone; I want you to be well. If you don’t vote for me for saying this, then don’t vote for me, but please, save your own lives,” Mamata Banerjee said, urging the public to prioritize safety over political differences. Her plea highlighted the urgent need for proper safety measures in buildings prone to fire hazards, a message she emphasized repeatedly during her visit.
The Chief Minister also took issue with the hotel’s failure to implement basic safety measures, especially regarding emergency evacuations. “When the fire brigade tried to enter the hotel, the door was locked. Alternative arrangements should always be in place for emergencies. Should those who lack alternatives be forgiven in emergencies? I am very tough in some places. I am rough and tough when it comes to this,” she stated firmly, reiterating her commitment to ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future.
The fire claimed the lives of 14 individuals, most of whom succumbed to suffocation. However, Mamata Banerjee praised the efforts of the police and fire brigade, who managed to save 90 lives using ladders and other means of rescue. “There was only one staircase here. No one could get down the stairs. Two people died trying to descend,” the Chief Minister noted, adding that there was no smoke evacuation system in place at the hotel—an oversight she described as both dangerous and unacceptable.
The Chief Minister made it clear that the hotel authorities would be held accountable for not ensuring the safety of their guests. “If the hotel business is to be run, the hotel authorities must also look after the guest side, ensuring the well-being and safety of those who stay there,” she said.
Mamata Banerjee’s remarks were not just about the immediate tragedy but about the larger issue of safety in old and overcrowded buildings throughout Kolkata. She acknowledged that there might be conflicts related to property ownership and tenancy but emphasized that safety must come first.
“This is a question of life and death,” she said. “You may have problems with your land and house. You may have issues with the landlord and the tenant, but you need to understand that people’s lives are at stake. The police and municipality must come together and speak with those who live here physically. They need to work on a solution.”
In light of the tragedy, the Chief Minister announced the formation of a committee to investigate the fire incident and ensure accountability. “The investigation will look into the condition of the hotel, the lack of proper safety measures, and the actions of the hotel management,” she confirmed.
She also called on authorities to conduct thorough safety checks on similar establishments across the city to prevent future disasters. “We must ensure that hotels and other buildings are equipped with adequate fire safety systems, including multiple escape routes and smoke evacuation systems,” Mamata Banerjee emphasized.
In a direct and heartfelt appeal, the Chief Minister said, “If you don’t vote for me because of what I am saying, that’s okay. I don’t want your vote for this. But please remember, I am saying this for your own safety and well-being. Your life is more important than anything else.”
As the investigation into the Barabazar fire continues, Mamata Banerjee’s message has resonated strongly with both the public and authorities. Her call for stronger enforcement of safety regulations and her personal plea to safeguard lives reflect a commitment to ensuring that such tragedies are never repeated.
