Fire breaks out in multi-storey residential building in Behala

A sense of panic gripped residents of James Long Sarani in Behala on Sunday afternoon when a major fire broke out in a residential apartment building. Thick black smoke and fierce flames were seen billowing from the windows of a fourth-floor flat, causing widespread alarm in the densely populated area.

The incident occurred in a four-storey apartment complex. Eyewitnesses reported first seeing smoke emanating from the window and balcony of a flat on the top floor. The situation escalated rapidly, with visible flames erupting before the fire brigade could arrive, forcing residents to quickly alert the authorities.

Faced with the rapidly spreading fire, occupants of the affected flat and others in the building scrambled to safety, attempting to navigate their way out of the smoke-filled premises. The presence of several adjacent buildings heightened the anxiety, with neighbours fearing the fire could spread further.

The fire department responded promptly, dispatching fire engines to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters immediately began the challenging task of evacuating all residents from the entire building while simultaneously battling the blaze engulfing the fourth-floor flat. Their efforts were reportedly hampered by the building having only one staircase, making access and evacuation more difficult.