A devastating fire tore through a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area early Wednesday, leaving at least 21 people dead and dozens injured. Many of those who lost their lives were foreign nationals staying in the city for medical treatment and other purposes, adding another layer of tragedy to one of the capital’s deadliest hotel fire incidents in recent years.
Authorities said more than 37 people were rescued from the building as emergency teams battled flames that spread rapidly through the structure.
Fire Believed to Have Started in Basement Restaurant
Initial findings indicate that the blaze began in a restaurant operating in the basement of Floris Stay Hotel. Within a short period, thick smoke and flames moved through the upper floors, trapping guests inside their rooms.
The fire also affected a neighboring hotel located close to the building.
Most guests were reportedly asleep when the fire broke out. More than 40 people were staying at the hotel at the time.
Rescue Effort Hampered by Building Layout
Firefighters, police personnel, ambulances and disaster response teams rushed to the scene after receiving information about the incident. Seventeen fire engines were deployed to bring the blaze under control and carry out rescue operations.
Officials said the location of the hotel inside a densely populated neighborhood complicated emergency access. Investigators have also found that the building had only one entry and exit route, creating major obstacles during evacuation.
Preliminary inquiries suggest there were few windows in the structure and that basement spaces were being used for accommodation.
Guests Jumped From Upper Floors
Videos circulating online showed desperate guests attempting to escape as smoke engulfed the building. Some jumped from upper floors while others tried to break glass panels to get out.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as trapped occupants searched for escape routes while rescue teams worked to reach them.
The incident has once again drawn attention to safety standards in budget and mid-range accommodation facilities operating in crowded urban neighborhoods.
Fire Safety Compliance Under Scrutiny
Early investigations indicate that the hotel did not possess a valid fire safety clearance certificate. Authorities are also examining allegations that the property was operating more rooms than it had been officially permitted to run.
Delhi Police have registered a case against the hotel management under provisions related to culpable negligence resulting in death. The exact cause of the fire has not yet been established.
Compensation Announced
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of life and announced compensation of ₹200,000 for the families of those killed and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also described the incident as deeply tragic and extended condolences to the affected families.
