8 slum houses burnt to ashes near Gariahat, Firhad says KMC will rebuild them

Kolkata experienced yet another devastating fire incident on Friday as the Kakulia slum near Gariahat went up in flames. Seven fire engines were dispatched to the site, with firefighters working tirelessly to bring the situation under control.

Kolkata Mayor and Municipal Minister Firhad Hakim personally visited the site, emphasizing the government’s commitment to relief and rehabilitation. “I am here on the orders of the Chief Minister,” said Hakim. “Eight houses have been destroyed in the fire, and the municipality will take responsibility for rebuilding them.”

According to local sources, the fire may have been triggered by negligence. Residents alleged that a slum dweller left their home after lighting a lamp and shutting the door, which could have caused the fire. Furious at the suspected carelessness, locals confronted the landlord, demanding accountability for the loss of property and displacement of families.

Thanks to the swift action of firefighters, the fire was brought under control before it could spread to nearby homes and infrastructure. Gas cylinders were promptly evacuated from each house and placed on the road to prevent potential explosions.