Massive fire breaks out at Hungerford Street's residential complex

A fire broke out on the roof of a housing complex at 9 Hungerford Street, Kolkata, on Friday, January 17, around 1:30 PM. The fire started in a storeroom on the rooftop of the six-story building, quickly spreading and releasing thick black smoke across the area. The Kolkata Fire Department was immediately alerted, and eight fire engines arrived on the scene within minutes to contain the fire. The fire engulfed the roof, but it did not spread to the lower floors, as fire teams focused on controlling the blaze.

The building houses several families, including many elderly residents. The fire led to an immediate evacuation, with fire department personnel helping to move residents from the building to safe areas outside. Many residents were seen waiting on the road as the fire was being managed. Thankfully, there were no immediate reports of injuries or fatalities. The cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed, though residents speculated that a short circuit in a geyser could have sparked the blaze.

The fire department also took precautions to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings, including a private hospital and a private school located close to the housing complex. As the situation was brought under control, fire officials began cooling operations. The road adjacent to the building was temporarily closed, and traffic in the area was diverted as a safety measure.

The full extent of the damage to the building is still being assessed, and fire officials are continuing their efforts to ensure there is no further flare-up. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with fire department teams working to gather further information. Authorities are also focusing on reviewing the fire safety protocols in the building.