9 killed in Indian budget hotel fire after suspected air-con explosion

Nine people, including a child, died and several others were injured in a fire that broke out early Wednesday at a budget hotel in Kolkata, India. Thick smoke filled the hotel, and some victims were discovered in bathrooms. Five fire engines responded to control the blaze, while police and disaster management teams conducted rescue operations. Nine individuals were rescued and hospitalized. Preliminary information suggests the fire may have been caused by an exploding air conditioner. Some victims appeared to be Bangladeshi nationals seeking medical treatment in Kolkata, and authorities are working to confirm their nationalities.

A fire erupted at a hotel in central Kolkata, West Bengal, India, early Wednesday morning, resulting in at least nine deaths and six injuries. The blaze, which began around 1:45 a.m. near the West Bengal Fire Department headquarters, prompted a response from five fire engines, police, and disaster management teams. Firefighters faced challenges reaching individuals on upper floors due to thick smoke. The injured were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Authorities are prioritizing rescue efforts for anyone still trapped and are investigating the cause of the fire, which remains unknown. This incident follows other recent deadly fires in India, with investigators often citing safety lapses and inadequate fire regulation enforcement.