Kolkata, September 1: A fire broke out at a train coach-themed restaurant located outside the Sealdah station on Monday, prompting the Eastern Railway (ER) to suspend the operator’s license.
The incident occurred around 9:15 AM. Fortunately, there were no casualties or injuries reported. However, an initial investigation revealed that the restaurant lacked adequate fire safety measures.
Upon receiving news of the fire, railway division officials were alerted, and the affected area was promptly cordoned off to ensure passenger safety.
An Eastern Railway official stated, “Fire engines arrived at the scene around 9:24 AM and immediately began extinguishing the flames. Through joint efforts, the fire was brought under control by approximately 10 AM and completely extinguished by 10:45 AM.”
The official confirmed that the incident did not affect passenger movement or train operations, as the restaurant is situated away from the main station building. There was no chaos at the station, and normal activities continued.
It was noted that while an automatic fire suppression system is installed in the Sealdah station complex, it did not cover the restaurant area. The responsibility for fire safety lay with the licensed operator. The fire department provided sufficient water from the station’s hydrant system, which was manually operated as needed.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the fire ignited due to overheated cooking oil in a frying pan, likely caused by excessive temperature. The flames reached the ceiling, igniting insulation materials in the ducts and ceiling. The enclosed nature of the restaurant resulted in significant smoke accumulation inside.
The official added, “The operator’s license has been suspended with immediate effect until the investigation is complete. A detailed inquiry has been initiated to determine the exact cause and accountability. If any negligence or lapse by the license holder is found, strict action will be taken according to Sealdah division railway regulations.”
Currently, the entire area has been sealed off, and forensic experts will collect samples to ascertain the cause of the fire.
According to railway officials, the swift action of the fire department and effective coordination among railway personnel helped bring the situation under control quickly, ensuring passenger safety and uninterrupted train services.
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