Authorities have launched investigations into alleged safety violations as rescue and relief efforts continue….reports Asian Lite News Desk
At least 21 people, including 17 foreign nationals, were killed and more than 40 others rescued after a massive fire broke out at a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area on Wednesday morning, prompting investigations into alleged fire safety and building regulation violations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it was in contact with the concerned embassies and was extending all necessary assistance to those affected by the tragedy.
According to officials, most of the foreign victims were nationals of Liberia, Nigeria, Mozambique and Bangladesh.
The fire erupted at Flourish Stay B&B at around 8:48 am, trapping dozens of occupants inside the building. Rescue teams evacuated more than 40 people from the premises, while several injured victims were rushed to nearby hospitals.
Doctors treating the injured said a number of survivors remain in critical condition. Max Healthcare Group Medical Director Dr Sandeep Budhiraja said eight patients were on ventilator support, with most suffering from smoke inhalation injuries.
“The majority of them have suffered from asphyxiation injuries caused by smoke inhalation. Most have minor burns, while one patient sustained burns covering more than 25 per cent of his body and has been shifted to Safdarjung Hospital,” Budhiraja said.
He added that several patients sustained serious fractures after jumping from upper floors in an attempt to escape the blaze.
“Many patients reported jumping from the building. As a result, we have seen long bone fractures, pelvic fractures and one spinal injury requiring neurosurgery,” he said.
According to hospital authorities, both Indian and foreign nationals were among those receiving treatment.
Fire officials said the building’s design may have contributed significantly to the scale of the tragedy. Chief Fire Officer (South Zone) Abhilash Kumar Malik said seven fire tenders were initially dispatched after a distress call was received at 8:50 am.
Preliminary inspections revealed major structural and safety concerns.
“The structure had a basement, ground floor and five upper floors. There was only one staircase alongside an elevator. The building was completely sealed, with windows shut and no proper ventilation or smoke outlet,” Malik said.
He explained that the structure effectively functioned like a chimney, allowing smoke and heat to spread rapidly to upper floors and trapping occupants.
Investigators are also examining alleged violations of building regulations. Officials said Flourish Stay B&B had permission to operate only six rooms under the bed-and-breakfast scheme, but was allegedly running 25 rooms. Another nearby establishment, Green Residency Hotel, was reportedly authorised for six rooms but operating 28.
Municipal Corporation of Delhi Mayor Pravesh Wahi said authorities had issued strict directives to prevent similar incidents and would conduct extensive inspections across the city.
“We have issued strict instructions to ensure such incidents do not recur. Any negligence regarding safety protocols will not be tolerated,” Wahi said.
He confirmed that 47 people were injured in the fire and that 21 deaths had been recorded.
Delhi Police have registered a case under provisions related to culpable homicide and other relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and possible lapses in safety compliance.
Meanwhile, sources said Delhi Lieutenant Governor V. K. Saxena is expected to chair a high level meeting with officials later in the day to review the incident and oversee the response.
The tragedy has once again raised concerns over fire safety standards and enforcement of building regulations in the national capital.
