Kolkata : A massive fire engulfed a dye factory in Khardaha, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, in the early hours of Tuesday, sending thick black smoke across the area and causing widespread panic.
The chemicals stored inside the factory fueled the fire, and firefighters reported multiple explosions from the site. Flames spread to a nearby T-shirt manufacturing unit, escalating the emergency.
Police sources said the fire broke out around 4:30 a.m., prompting an immediate response. About 20 fire engines and a large contingent of police rushed to the scene, while Barrackpore Commissioner of Police Murli Dhar personally oversaw operations.
“Since it is a dye factory, it stores many chemicals. The fire spread quickly, and the neighboring T-shirt factory caught fire. We heard explosions from inside,” said a senior Khardah police officer.
Firefighters continue to battle the blaze, but they have not yet located the source of the fire. Officials also do not know whether any workers remain inside. A fire brigade official added,
“We will bring the T-shirt factory fire under control soon, but controlling the dye factory fire will take more time.”
Residents of Ishwaripur, Khardah evacuated after officials warned of the danger. Authorities continue investigating the cause while prioritizing the safety of residents and emergency personnel.
The Bengal dye factory fire raises serious concerns about industrial safety and fire preparedness in the region. Updates are awaited as firefighters work to contain the ongoing inferno.
–IANS
