Fire breaks out in house; woman dies, husband critical

A woman was charred to death while her husband has been fighting for life after sustaining severe burn injuries on his body when the couple were trying to extinguish the fire that broke out inside their house near Airport gate number 2 on Monday morning.

Police said that the victim Pratima Kundu, who suffered serious burn injuries, later died after being taken to a hospital. Her husband Tapan Kundu is undergoing treatment in a city hospital. His condition is stated to be critical. Doctors in the hospital said that the injuries are serious in nature.

Local people spotted smoke billowing out of the house where the couple has been living for quite some time. The local residents rushed to the spot but failed to rescue the two as the door of the house was locked from inside. They informed the fire brigade and two fire tenders were pressed into action to douse the flame. The

fire personnel reached the spot, broke open the door and rescued the victims. Pratima succumbed to her injuries after being taken to the hospital.

Police and fire brigade have started an investigation in this regard. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Police are also investigating if there was any foul play in the incident. The fire was brought under control by the fire tenders within 2 hours.

Police and fire brigade personnel are also probing if an electrical short circuit led to the incident. The incident triggered tension in the locality. Police will also interrogate the husband of the deceased in this connection once he shows signs of recovery. Police and fire brigade are yet to announce the extent of the damage caused by the fire. A detailed probe has been initiated.