Mass Evacuation in Kolkata's Sector V After Fire Breaks Out at Gothic-Themed Pub
A major fire incident at a gothic-themed pub in Kolkata's bustling Sector V triggered a massive evacuation on Friday evening, with approximately 10,500 employees and visitors forced to flee from over 100 offices and 40 restaurants operating within a commercial complex. The blaze erupted at Pourgattory Club, located on the podium level of the 15-storey Globsyn Crystals building with its distinctive glass facade, around 4:15 PM, causing widespread panic and a frantic rush for exits.
Rapid Spread of Smoke and Emergency Response
Thick, black smoke began billowing out of the restopub shortly after the fire started, spreading rapidly through the lower levels of the building. The smoke seeped into common areas through air conditioning ducts, setting off fire alarms across multiple floors. Within minutes, the alarms and visible smoke sent thousands of employees scrambling for safety.
Security personnel immediately sprang into action, checking every floor and urgently instructing occupants to leave the premises immediately using staircases and designated emergency exits. As a precautionary measure, the power supply to the entire building was disconnected to prevent electrical hazards and further complications.
Evacuation Challenges and Rescue Operations
Despite repeated announcements advising against using elevators, some individuals attempted to access them during the chaotic evacuation. This led to a critical situation where a woman became trapped inside one of the lifts after the power was cut off. She began to panic as she found herself stuck in the dark, confined space.
Firefighters and building guards quickly responded to the emergency, managing to rescue the trapped woman and transport her to a nearby hospital for medical attention. "She suffered a panic attack, but was doing better after preliminary treatment," a fireman reported, highlighting the psychological toll such incidents can take on individuals.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Terrifying Incident
Anshupriya Roy, an employee at an IT firm located on the fifth floor of the building, described the harrowing experience: "We stepped out of our office and found thick smoke all around. The emergency gates were opened and we were instructed to run down the stairs, leaving our belongings behind. Power was soon disconnected, and fire officials, along with the building's fire safety team, responded quickly. We were allowed to re-enter and collect our belongings after about an hour."
Sayani Dutta, who works at a real estate firm on the first floor, praised the emergency responders: "The firemen were quick to address the situation and ensured all of us were evacuated safely."
Ankit Prasad, an employee at a private firm on the second floor, reflected on the potential severity of the incident: "The incident could have turned catastrophic if the blaze spread upwards," emphasizing how quickly such fires can escalate in multi-storey buildings.
Investigation and Official Statements
Fire officials suspect that the blaze may have originated from a short circuit inside the pub. Three fire tenders were deployed to the scene and managed to control the fire in less than 45 minutes, demonstrating efficient emergency response capabilities. However, authorities clarified that the exact cause can only be determined after a detailed forensic examination is conducted.
State Fire and Emergency Services Minister Sujit Bose visited the site in the evening and commended the building's internal fire safety mechanisms for playing a crucial role in preventing the situation from escalating further. "The building's fire-fighting system was adequate and helped prevent major damage. Our firemen also reached the spot promptly and managed to bring the blaze under control in time," he stated, acknowledging both structural preparedness and human response effectiveness.
Lessons in Fire Safety and Preparedness
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of:
- Proper electrical maintenance in commercial establishments
- Regular testing of fire safety systems in high-rise buildings
- Clear evacuation protocols that all occupants understand
- Strict adherence to safety guidelines during emergencies
The successful evacuation of thousands of people without any reported serious injuries highlights the value of preparedness and rapid response in urban commercial centers where large numbers of people work in concentrated areas.
