Kolkata, 20 August (H.S.): Panic gripped the women’s hostel of Barasat Medical College and Hospital in West Bengal on Thursday morning after smoke was suddenly noticed coming from a room. The incident comes amid a series of fire incidents reported across the state in recent days. No casualties or injuries have been reported.

According to the hospital authorities, smoke was spotted coming from a room in the NTS building at around 8 a.m. The hospital’s electrical department and the fire brigade were immediately informed. A fire engine reached the spot and brought the blaze under control within 10 to 15 minutes.

The fire damaged some furniture, clothes and important documents kept inside the room, according to the fire department. However, firefighters managed to contain the blaze before it could spread to other parts of the hostel, averting a potentially major incident.

A preliminary investigation suggests that a short circuit in electrical wiring may have triggered the fire. The fire department and hospital authorities are conducting a further investigation to determine the exact cause.

Hospital Deputy Superintendent Nivedita Mishra said smoke was noticed coming from a student’s room at around 8 a.m., following which the electrical department and fire brigade were alerted immediately. She said the fire was brought under complete control within 10 to 15 minutes.

The situation is currently normal, and the hospital authorities are closely monitoring the situation as a precautionary measure.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh