Massive fire in central Kolkata building; 20 fire engines rushed to spot, no casualties reported

A massive fire broke out at a central Kolkata building in the early hours of Saturday (November 15, 2025). At least 20 fire engines were rushed to the spot to douse the flames; the firefighting is still underway. Authorities did not report any casualties as the shops were still closed when the fire broke out. 

According to initial reports, the fire broke out at Ezra Street at an electrical products godown from where the flames spread to multiple other shops in the area. Many locals and shop owners also rushed to the spot to help control the flames. 

“I got a call early in the morning and came rushing. Everything is ruined. We could not open the shop. I am just standing here helplessly and watching our shops burn down,” a shopkeeper who was present near the fire sight told mediapersons. 

Huge flames and thick smoke were visible from a long distance from the source of the fire, raising panic among locals.

As the fire spread rapidly and engulfed multiple shops, firefighters struggled to control the flames even three hours after the flames started. 

“The situation is now under control. Fire is now confined. Because these are electrical goods, the fumes are huge,” Ranvir Kumar, Director General, West Bengal Fire & Emergency Services said.  

Locals complained that the fire brigade was late to reach the spot and was not proactive in controlling the fire. However, fire brigade officials denied these claims.

Local councillor Santosh Pathak said that the buildings had no proper fire safety measures, which led to major hindrance in controlling the fire.