Nine killed, several injured after fire tears through hotel in India

At least nine people lost their lives and several others suffered injuries in a hotel fire in Kolkata, India on Wednesday, according to a senior fire department official. The fire erupted early on Wednesday and claimed the lives of nine individuals, including a child. Thick smoke engulfed the building, while some victims were found in the bathrooms.

Preliminary reports suggested that an air conditioner in the budget hotel may have detonated, sparking the blaze, said Anuj Sharma, the fire services director of West Bengal state. He added that nine people - six men, two women and a child - were successfully rescued and transported to a hospital. Santosh Pathak, a member of West Bengal's ruling party, mentioned that several victims appeared to be Bangladeshis who had journeyed to Kolkata for medical treatment.

The team is currently working to confirm the nationalities of the deceased. A total of 60 guests were present at the hotel when the fire broke out. It is not uncommon for building fires to occur in India due to insufficient firefighting equipment and a general disregard for safety regulations.