major fire broke out today (Friday, June 14, 2024) at the Acropolis Mall, a popular shopping center in the eastern part of Kolkata. Initial reports suggest the fire originated on the fourth floor, possibly in the bustling food court area. The food court is a popular hangout spot, and the fire is likely to have caused significant chaos and panic during the peak lunch hour. Thankfully, due to the swift response of mall security and authorities, a major catastrophe was averted.
Swift Response and Evacuation Efforts
According to local news reports, firefighters were alerted about the blaze shortly after noon. Authorities responded quickly, deploying at least 10 fire tenders and a team of firefighters to the scene. Firefighters are currently battling the blaze and working to contain it. Thankfully, initial reports indicate there are no injuries. Social media has been flooded with images and videos of the incident, some showing thick black smoke billowing from the top floors of the mall. However, it is important to rely on information from verified sources to avoid the spread of misinformation.
Rescue Operations and Investigation Underway
While the fire appears to be under control, fire crews are conducting a thorough inspection of the building to ensure everyone has been evacuated safely. This process may take some time, as firefighters meticulously search all floors and crawlspaces for any remaining occupants. In addition to rescuing people, firefighters are also working to extinguish any lingering flames and hotspots that could reignite the fire.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Fire investigators will be looking for clues to determine what sparked the blaze. This may involve examining electrical wiring, kitchen equipment in the food court, and any other potential sources of ignition. Security footage from the mall may also be reviewed to help investigators piece together the sequence of events that led to the fire.
Uncertainties and Concerns
The extent of the damage caused by the fire remains unclear. Social media is abuzz with videos and images of the incident, but their authenticity needs to be verified by credible news sources.
The fire at Acropolis Mall is bound to have a significant impact on the local community. The mall is a major shopping destination and a source of employment for many. The upcoming updates will shed light on the extent of the economic disruption caused by this incident.
