Kolkata Market Blaze: Locals Blame Fire Brigade's Delayed Response, CM Mamata Banerjee Announces Relief Measures

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A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of Monday at Kolkata's Khidirpur market, leaving over 1,300 shops feared gutted. The blaze was brought under control after a nightlong effort by the fire brigade. Locals, however, are venting their anger against the state administration, alleging that there was a significant delay in the arrival of fire engines. The delay, they claim, could have been the reason for the extensive damage. A shopkeeper even alleged that the fire brigade did not have water and oil in its pump, making it impossible to pump water from the nearby river to extinguish the flames. Responding to the local's claims, West Bengal Fire and Emergency Services Minister Sujit Bose stated that a minimum time is required for the fire engines to arrive, and they did arrive from Watgunge, the head office, and Garden Reach. He also acknowledged that firefighters work risking their lives. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the area later in the day and announced that the market will be reconstructed adhering to all scientific guidelines. In the meantime, the affected shops will be relocated to an area nearby. The Chief Minister also promised to rebuild the gutted shops and announced relief measures, including Rs. 1 lakh for all whose shops were completely destroyed and Rs. 50,000 for those whose shops were partially damaged.