Kolkata, August 18: A devastating fire at the Bidheshini Hotel in Tarapith, located in West Bengal‘s Birbhum district, has claimed the lives of nine individuals. In response to this tragedy, authorities have ordered the indefinite closure of 15 hotels situated near the renowned Tara Temple.
Following the fire, police arrested the hotel’s main owner, Probith Paul. The district administration issued a notice shortly after his arrest. On Monday, police also apprehended his son and co-owner, Kalyan Paul.
The incident has raised serious concerns regarding fire safety measures in the rapidly developing hotels near the temple. Many have alleged that not only Bidheshini but also most of the recently constructed hotels and lodges lack adequate fire safety protocols.
In light of these concerns, the district administration conducted surprise inspections of several hotels and lodges in the vicinity of the temple.
The findings revealed that the 15 hotels did not have sufficient fire safety arrangements and lacked alternative exit routes for emergencies. A district administrative officer stated that strict legal action would be taken against hotel officials who fail to ensure fire safety measures and alternative exit routes.
The officer emphasized, “The safety of the thousands of pilgrims visiting this sacred city daily is our top priority.”
Ashwin Babu Singh, the sub-divisional officer of Rampurhat, which oversees Tarapith, informed reporters that the administration had previously issued closure notices to eight other hotels on Monday.
He added, “Today, we have issued notices to 15 more hotel officials. Considering the upcoming festive season, we are planning to arrange safety training for the managers and staff of every hotel in Tarapith.”
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