Fire engulfs slum in Kolkata's Garden Reach, 50 shanties reduced to ashes

A massive fire broke out in the Paharpur area of Garden Reach in Kolkata on Christmas evening, leaving dozens of families homeless. The blaze started around 4:30 PM on Thursday in a congested slum cluster, quickly spreading through the closely packed shanties. At least 50 shelters were reduced to ashes within minutes as the fire fed on flammable materials and refuse piles nearby.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing frequent explosions, suspected to be gas cylinders bursting, which intensified the inferno. Six fire engines were rushed to the spot to battle the flames. However, the narrow lanes and congested nature of the Paharpur locality made it extremely difficult for firemen to maneuver their equipment and douse the fire effectively. While the main blaze was eventually brought under control, several "pocket fires" continued to smolder late into the evening.

The victims, who lost all their belongings on a day meant for celebration, are now staring at an uncertain future. Many expressed despair, stating that they have lost everything they owned and are now dependent on administrative aid to rebuild their lives. Local residents have raised concerns over a possible conspiracy, though the fire department's preliminary assessment points toward a cylinder blast as the primary cause.