KOLKATA, 9 March, 2021 (TON): On Monday evening, a fire broke out in an office building in central Kolkata’s Strand Road that killed around 9 people.

The dead include, four firemen, a police officer, a railways officer, and a security person, the officials said.

While expressing grief over the incident, the Railway Minister Piyush Goyal said, "Sincere condolences to the families of the 9 brave deceased including the 4 firefighters, 2 Railways personnel and an Assistant Sub Inspector of Police (ASI) who have been fighting the fire at the Eastern Railways Strand road office in Kolkata."

"Railway officials including the GM are at the site and are working in coordination with the State Govt for rescue and relief efforts. We are committed to doing everything possible to ensure the safety of all concerned," the minister said in another tweet.

PM Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the incident and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

PM Modi also extended condolences to the dead and said, "Saddened by the loss of lives due to the fire tragedy in Kolkata. In this hour of sadness, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest."

Earlier in the evening, immediately after the fire broke out at 6.30 pm, the fire minister, the urban affairs minister, and police officers rushed to the spot. At least 25 fire engines were deployed to put out the blaze that began on the 13th floor.

Around 11 pm, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the spot and announced to give ₹ 10 lakh to the families of those killed.