A tragic fire incident in Howrah has claimed the life of an elderly retired professor. The blaze erupted in her room on Sunday night, originating from a room heater placed dangerously close to a clothes rack.
Fire Breaks Out in North Howrah Home
The fire started around 8:30 PM on Sunday in the ground-floor room of Radharani Shaw. She was an 81-year-old retired English professor from a Burdwan college. Shaw lived alone in her ancestral house near Pilkhana crossing on GT Road in north Howrah.
Intense Blaze Destroys Room Contents
Fire department officials reported that the flames completely destroyed everything inside the room. The fire consumed the refrigerator, air conditioner, bed, and wardrobe. Fortunately, the kitchen was located a bit further away, preventing the gas cylinder from exploding.
Rescue Efforts and Hospitalization
Three fire engines rushed to the scene and managed to bring the fire under control after about thirty minutes. Police officers, firefighters, and North Howrah MLA Goutam Choudhary worked together to rescue Shaw from the burning room.
They immediately transported her to Howrah District Hospital for urgent medical attention. Doctors at the hospital examined her and declared her dead upon arrival.
Preliminary Investigation Findings
Police conducted an initial probe into the incident. An officer stated that their preliminary investigation suggests the fire spread from the room heater. The heater was placed very close to a clothes rack, which likely ignited and caused the rapid spread of flames.
Authorities also noted that the elderly woman was suffering from various age-related illnesses. These health conditions may have complicated her ability to escape or respond to the emergency.
Community and Safety Concerns
This incident has raised concerns about fire safety, especially for elderly individuals living alone. The use of heating appliances during winter months requires careful attention to placement and maintenance.
Local residents and officials are urging people to ensure proper safety measures when using room heaters. Keeping flammable materials at a safe distance and regular appliance checks can prevent such tragedies.
