Massive Fire at Wow! Momo Factory in Kolkata’s Anandapur; Official Toll 16 Dead, Dozens Missing, Safety Lapses Alleged

**BREAKING NEWS**
Kolkata:* A major fire broke out at a Wow! Momo manufacturing unit in Anandapur, East Kolkata, triggering panic and rescue operations late into the night. Official sources have confirmed **16 deaths** and **around 30 workers missing**, but local residents and labour groups fear the actual toll could be significantly higher.

**Key developments so far:**

* The factory allegedly **did not have a valid fire safety clearance**.
* Reports claim **workers were routinely locked inside the factory at night**, with doors bolted from outside to prevent theft.
* On the night of the fire, **nearly 50 workers were believed to be inside** when flames spread rapidly.
* Questions are being raised over how dozens could go missing from a **locked facility**, prompting allegations of **underreporting of casualties**.
* Unofficial estimates suggest **up to 50 workers may have died**.

Fire brigade officials say rescue operations were hampered by locked exits and heavy smoke. Police have launched an investigation into possible **criminal negligence** and violations of labour and safety laws.

Labour rights organisations have called the incident a **man-made disaster**, not an accident, citing long-standing unsafe work practices. Protests and demands for accountability are growing, as concerns mount that similar conditions persist in other factories across the city.

Further details are awaited as investigations continue.
(By anirban das aimamedia )