At least 21 people lost their lives and more than 40 others were rescued after a devastating fire engulfed a multi-storey hotel building in Delhi’s upscale Malviya Nagar area on Wednesday morning. The blaze triggered widespread panic as thick plumes of smoke billowed from the premises, turning a routine day into a major emergency operation.
The fire broke out at Flourish Stay B&B, a hotel reportedly operating under the Delhi government’s Bed and Breakfast scheme. The establishment, popular among visitors seeking affordable accommodation in South Delhi, housed numerous guests at the time of the incident.
Several of those killed are understood to be foreign nationals, primarily from Central Asian and African countries. Many had travelled to Delhi for medical treatment, a common practice for patients seeking specialized healthcare in Indian hospitals. Officials fear the death toll could climb further as several injured individuals remain in critical condition in nearby hospitals.
“We are still in the process of identifying all the victims,” a senior police official said. Rescue teams continue to comb through the building for any remaining individuals.
Fire tenders and police personnel rushed to the spot shortly after receiving distress calls. Firefighters battled intense flames and heavy smoke to evacuate guests, many of whom were trapped on upper floors. More than 40 people were successfully rescued and shifted to safety.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as residents and guests rushed out of the building, some covering their faces to escape the choking smoke. Local residents assisted emergency services in the initial moments before professional teams took full control of the operation.
Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have originated from a restaurant operating on the ground floor of the building. However, the exact cause is yet to be determined. Fire department officials have launched a detailed investigation, which will include examining electrical wiring, kitchen safety protocols, and adherence to fire safety norms.
Delhi Fire Service officials have not ruled out possibilities such as a short circuit, gas leak, or negligence in the kitchen area. The building has been cordoned off as teams assess structural damage.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns regarding fire safety compliance in Delhi’s hotels and commercial establishments, particularly those catering to tourists and medical visitors. Many budget hotels and B&Bs in residential colonies operate in older buildings that may not fully meet modern safety standards.
The Delhi government is expected to issue a statement shortly and may initiate a broader review of establishments registered under the Bed and Breakfast scheme.
As rescue and recovery operations continue, authorities have appealed for calm and urged citizens to avoid the area to allow emergency vehicles unhindered access. Condolences have begun pouring in from various quarters, with calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
