Death toll in Anandapur fire rises to 8, several workers still missing

The death toll in the massive momo warehouse fire in Kolkata’s Anandpur area has risen to eight, even as relief and rescue operations continue amid lingering pocket fires. Police said several people are still missing, raising fears that the casualty count could increase further.

The fire broke out around 3 a.m. on Monday at a momo warehouse in the Nazirabad area, triggering a large-scale emergency response. Nearly 15 fire tenders were pressed into service round the clock to control the blaze, which has largely been doused, though smouldering pockets remain at multiple spots.

Police officials said burnt human remains have been recovered from the gutted premises, and search teams are continuing operations amid debris and collapsed structures. The momo warehouse reportedly stored dry food items, soft drink bottles and thermocol materials, which intensified the fire and complicated firefighting efforts due to narrow access lanes.

Family members of workers alleged that several employees on night duty were trapped inside and claimed the premises may have been locked from outside, preventing escape. At least 13 people from Purba Medinipur are reported missing, with families waiting anxiously at the site seeking information.

State Power Minister Arup Biswas visited the affected area, met bereaved families and reviewed rescue efforts. Police have registered a case on their own initiative, while officials said the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, though a short circuit is suspected.