Inferno Near EM Bypass Sparks Panic, Halts Traffic in Kolkata
A massive fire erupted near Kolkata’s EM Bypass on Wednesday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the bustling Metropolitan area. The blaze originated in a plastic warehouse situated close to a five-star hotel, where highly flammable materials intensified the flames and quickly engulfed nearby shanties.
Thick plumes of black smoke blanketed the skyline as residents scrambled to safety. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the fire spreading rapidly and emergency services struggling to reach the site due to traffic congestion.
Local authorities confirmed that multiple makeshift homes were reduced to ashes. Although no casualties were reported at the time, the fear of further spread kept residents on edge. The fire’s proximity to densely populated zones and commercial establishments heightened the urgency of the response.
Firefighters deployed over ten tenders to battle the inferno, navigating narrow lanes and heavy traffic. The operation was hampered by the presence of combustible substances, which fueled the flames and complicated containment efforts.
Traffic along the EM Bypass came to a standstill as police cordoned off affected stretches. Commuters faced hours-long delays, and emergency diversions were set up to ease congestion. Ambulances and fire trucks were seen maneuvering through gridlocked roads, adding to the tension.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, with preliminary reports pointing to unsafe storage practices inside the warehouse. Officials are expected to conduct a forensic analysis to determine the exact trigger.
Residents expressed frustration over the lack of fire safety enforcement in the area. Many called for stricter regulations and routine inspections to prevent such incidents in the future.
The blaze has reignited conversations around urban planning and emergency preparedness in Kolkata. With the city’s infrastructure under strain, experts urge immediate reforms to ensure public safety and swift disaster response.
As the flames subside and cleanup begins, the incident stands as a stark reminder of the fragile balance between development and safety.
