A devastating fire broke out at a cloth warehouse on Maharshi Debendranath Road in Nimtala, leading to the death of two people due to suffocation. The incident sent thick black smoke billowing into the sky, alarming residents in the surrounding areas.
The fire, which began late Monday night, intensified rapidly because of the large stockpile of flammable materials and fabrics stored inside the warehouse. Within minutes, the entire structure was engulfed in flames, making firefighting efforts extremely challenging.
Ten fire engines from the fire department were rushed to the spot and battled the blaze in a warlike operation. Firefighters worked relentlessly through the night to bring the massive fire under control and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings.
Officials confirmed that two individuals trapped inside succumbed to suffocation before they could be rescued. Their identities are yet to be formally disclosed, pending notification of their families.
While the main fire has been brought under control, authorities reported that small pockets of fire are still active within the debris. Cooling operations are underway to fully douse any remaining hotspots and prevent a potential re-ignition.
Preliminary investigations suggest that a short circuit could have triggered the fire, but the exact cause will be determined after a thorough forensic examination. An inquiry has been initiated, and the incident has raised fresh concerns about fire safety compliance in commercial warehouses.