Tarapith Hotel Fire: 7 Killed, Several Injured in West Bengal

TARAPITH, West Bengal, India — At least seven people were killed and several others injured after a major fire broke out at a hotel in the temple town of Tarapith in West Bengal’s Birbhum district early Monday morning.

Fire Erupts While Guests Were Sleeping

The fire broke out at around 4:30 a.m. at Hotel Bideshinii, while most guests were asleep.

Smoke and flames spread rapidly through the building, trapping guests inside as firefighters and police rushed to the scene.

Seven Killed

Authorities said seven people died, while several others were rescued and taken to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital for treatment.

Officials said the victims appear to have died after inhaling toxic smoke as the fire spread through materials inside the hotel.

Short Circuit Suspected

Firefighters eventually brought the blaze under control.

An electrical short circuit is being investigated as a possible cause, although authorities have not yet announced a final determination.

Police have opened an investigation into the deadly fire and the hotel’s fire-safety arrangements.