Fire minister reaches incident site at 3 am, supervises firefighting operation

Kolkata: State Fire and Emergency Services minister Sovan Chatterjee, who has been closely monitoring the work to douse the flames at Bagree Market, stated that the devastating blaze could have been averted if proper steps in terms of firefighting arrangements had been taken on time.

Chatterjee said: "The area is congested and hydraulic ladders could not be used due to overhead wires and cables. The building was packed with inflammable objects. An inspection was carried out at Bagree Market, Mehta Building and such other buildings in Kolkata very recently. The authorities of the buildings were cautioned and were also told to take the necessary steps to avert an incident of fire." Chatterjee further added: "Would we witness such a catastrophe if proper measures had been taken?"

It may be mentioned that Chatterjee went to the spot at around 3 am. He had been at the spot till last reports came in on Sunday night. The minister spoke to senior officers of his department to ensure that the firefighting operation is carried out properly.