India, Aug. 19 -- Horrified guests rescued from a devastating blaze at a Kolkata hotel that claimed nine lives in the early hours of Wednesday, Aug 19th recounted a night of terror, as dark smoke engulfed the second and third floors of the dilapidated building with little hope of escape. Many said there were no fire alarms or safety equipment in place.

Nine people, including a four-year-old child and two women, were killed in the fire at the cramped central Kolkata building, which houses several hotels. Prompt action by fire brigade personnel saved around 80 lives, said West Bengal Fire and Emergency Services Minister Kaushik Chowdhury.

A Bangladeshi national staying at the hotel said he had tried to alert staff, who were asleep when th...