Fire Breaks Out at CESC Office in Panihati, West Bengal

In the early hours of Friday, September 18, 2026, a sudden blaze erupted inside the office of the Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation (CESC) in Panihati, a bustling suburb of Kolkata.

The fire broke out near the premises of Bengal Chemicals, and within minutes thick, black smoke began to billow, draping the surrounding streets in a gloomy veil.

Local residents reported the smell of burning plastic and the crackling of flames, prompting many to step out of their homes and watch as fire‑engine crews raced to the scene.

Firefighters from the Panihati fire station arrived promptly, deploying two fire engines and a ladder truck. Their primary aim was to douse the flames before they could spread to nearby warehouses.

According to the fire department, the blaze was contained within an hour, and no casualties have been reported so far. However, a few minor injuries from smoke inhalation are being treated as a precaution.

The CESC office, which houses administrative and billing sections, suffered considerable damage to its interior fittings, but the building’s structural integrity remains intact.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Early speculation points to an electrical short circuit, a common trigger in office environments.

Officials have urged nearby businesses and residents to remain vigilant, keep fire exits clear, and cooperate with emergency services in case of any further incidents.

As the smoke cleared, the neighborhood returned to a tentative calm, with citizens hoping for a swift reconstruction of the damaged office and a thorough safety review.