A major fire broke out at Dey’s Medical medicine manufacturing plant in south Kolkata’s Bondel Gate area on Saturday afternoon, cloaking the vicinity in thick black smoke, according to local officials. Reported around 4:00 PM IST, the blaze prompted the immediate deployment of ten fire tenders to the site to combat the flames, with seven actively engaged in containment efforts by late afternoon. No injuries or trapped individuals have been reported, but the situation remains precarious due to the presence of large quantities of chemicals and flammable materials at the facility.

Firefighters faced significant challenges accessing the plant due to narrow surrounding lanes, complicating efforts to control the blaze. Local police were also dispatched to manage the scene and ensure public safety. Workers at the plant, where repair work was reportedly underway, evacuated after experiencing breathing difficulties caused by the dense smoke. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with authorities yet to determine the trigger.

The incident has reignited concerns among residents about the storage of hazardous chemicals in a densely populated area, as highlighted by the local councillor. Long-standing complaints about safety risks in the neighborhood underscore the urgency of addressing regulatory oversight. As firefighting efforts continue, officials are working to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

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