At least nine people, including a child, lost their lives in a fire that erupted at a hotel in Kolkata, India, early on Wednesday, according to local police.
The blaze started around 2:50 AM on the second floor of the hotel and was extinguished within an hour, as reported by a senior police officer. Fortunately, around 30 guests were safely evacuated during the incident.
Officials suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit, though the exact reason is still under investigation. Several individuals suffered injuries, and six of them are currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
News agency ANI indicated that some of the deceased were Bangladeshi citizens who had traveled to Kolkata for medical care. Meanwhile, NDTV stated that all those who died were from Bangladesh. However, a police official noted that the nationalities of the victims are still being confirmed.
The hotel is located in a densely populated area of central Kolkata, which is known for its budget lodging and dining options.
