Kolkata Nazirabad Fire Tragedy: Death Toll Climbs to 25 as Forensic Probe Faces Hurdles
The devastating fire at the Nazirabad godown in Kolkata has claimed more lives, with the death toll rising to 25 on Thursday as body parts of four additional missing persons were recovered from the debris. This grim discovery underscores the ongoing challenges in the aftermath of the tragedy, which has left families in anguish and investigators struggling to piece together the events.
Forensic Investigation Stalled Amid Structural Dangers
Over 72 hours since the fire erupted, the forensic team's efforts to collect crucial samples have been severely hampered. Experts have been unable to proceed with their work due to the presence of collapsed structures and extensive rubble at the site. An officer involved in the investigation explained, "The collapsed structures are dangling precariously, and these are being razed now. Though a few samples were collected by the forensic team earlier, more samples are needed for the probe." The delay in forensic analysis has significantly impeded the overall investigation, as authorities rely heavily on the expert report to determine the cause of the fire.
Police Struggle to Ascertain Fire Cause Amid Chaos
Law enforcement officials have admitted that they have not been able to pinpoint the origin or cause of the blaze, largely due to the forensic delays. The probe has not progressed significantly, with much of the investigative work contingent on the forensic findings. Another officer noted, "Until the forensic tests are concluded and the report reaches us, we won't be in a position to surge ahead with the probe." This stagnation has left many questions unanswered, adding to the frustration of affected families and the public.
Site Secured as Recovery Efforts Intensify
In response to the ongoing recovery operations, authorities have imposed strict restrictions at the godown premises. The area has been barricaded, and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) demolition squad is actively working to clear the debris. To prevent any disturbance or tampering with evidence, assembly of more than five persons within a 100-meter radius has been prohibited under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. An officer clarified, "The restriction on assembly at the spot was imposed to ensure that the evidence remains intact and no disturbance happens here." This measure has transformed the once-thronged vicinity into a deserted zone, starkly contrasting with the crowds that gathered earlier in the week.
Families Await Closure Amid DNA Testing Process
The human toll of the tragedy is palpable, with families of the victims enduring immense emotional distress as they await the identification of their loved ones. Police have initiated DNA testing by collecting blood samples from relatives, but as of the latest reports, no bodies have been formally identified. This uncertainty has left many in a state of anxiety, unable to perform last rites or find closure.
Nayan Haldar, a college student from Baruipur, shared his anguish: "My father, Basudeb, worked in the momo chain's godown. I know I lost my father to the fire, but we can't perform last rites until we get his body. I gave blood for DNA test at a hospital on Wednesday." Similarly, Sunil Hansda recounted the heartbreaking final moments with his brother Rabish, who perished in the flames. "He called me and wept, saying he was in the jaws of death, with fire spreading to the godown, and that he was unable to escape. He told me to look after the family before we got disconnected. I don't know how long it will take to hand over his body to us."
Uncertainty Over Missing Persons Complicates Recovery
Compounding the tragedy is the lack of clarity regarding the exact number of individuals missing after the fire. Police have received 27 missing complaints from workers' families, but the total count remains uncertain. The recovery of body parts during debris clearance highlights the chaotic and perilous conditions at the site, further delaying the identification process and prolonging the agony for those awaiting news.
As the investigation into the Nazirabad godown fire continues to face obstacles, the community in Kolkata remains gripped by sorrow and uncertainty. The rising death toll and stalled forensic efforts underscore the need for a thorough and expedited probe to bring answers and solace to the affected families.
