Kolkata: Nine emergency responders have died in a fire that broke out at a multi-storey building in Kolkata on Monday evening.
West Bengal Fire and Emergency Services Minister Sujit Bose confirmed that four firefighters, two RPF jawans and one Kolkata police ASI have died in the blaze.
President Ram Nath Kovind stated, “Pained beyond words by the extremely tragic fire accident at a building in Kolkata. My deep sympathy and condolences for the bereaved families. I wish for speedy recovery of the injured.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today expressed sadness at the loss of lives due to the fire tragedy in Kolkata and approved an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the incident.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) also said Rs 50,000 would be given to the seriously injured persons.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who visited the spot, had also announced compensation and offered assistance from the State government.
“Money cannot compensate for loss of life but the State government will stand by these familes. Each family will be given a job and Rs 10 lakh,” she said.