Kolkata: A devastating fire at the Wow! Momo warehouse in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, on January 26 has left the state in shock. Relief and identification operations are underway, but authorities fear the death toll could rise further.
Officials say the fire was so intense that most of the bodies were completely charred, leaving only major bones and skulls. According to reports, police and rescue teams are now counting the remaining bones to estimate the number of victims. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Rescue teams continue to comb through the debris in search of more victims.
Death Toll Rises to 21
Rescue operations recovered 13 more bodies, bringing the confirmed death toll to 21. Police stated that 28 people are still missing, raising concerns that the number of fatalities may increase. A senior police officer noted that given the severity of the incident, the death toll could rise.
Due to the condition of the recovered bodies, conventional identification methods are not possible. Authorities plan to begin DNA testing from Thursday to identify the 21 victims. Many bodies were severely burned, leaving DNA analysis as the only reliable method for identification.
Security Measures Ahead of Political Visits
Ahead of proposed visits by opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari and other BJP leaders, authorities have imposed restrictions in the area to maintain law and order. The curfew, effective from Wednesday midnight, aims to ensure smooth rescue operations and facilitate identification efforts. Suvendu Adhikari has approached the Calcutta High Court seeking permission to visit the site and lead a march from a nearby temple. Court proceedings in the matter are expected before Justice Shubra Ghosh on Thursday.
The fire has left a deep scar on the local community, and officials are working tirelessly to manage the aftermath and provide closure to the families of the victims.
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