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Fire in south Delhi claims 21 lives
At least 21 people died and dozens more were injured after a fire engulfed a multi-storey building in Delhi's Malviya Nagar area on Wednesday, police confirmed. Many of the victims were foreigners who had traveled to India for medical treatment or to support relatives undergoing care, local media reported.
Building operated as unregulated B&B for patients
The structure, identified as Flourish Stay B&B, allegedly functioned as lodging for patients and their families receiving treatment at a nearby private hospital. Authorities are investigating whether the facility had the required permits to operate as a bed-and-breakfast.
Delhi minister Ashish Sood stated that those responsible for any regulatory violations would face criminal charges. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
Rescue efforts and eyewitness accounts
Fire officer AK Malik said the blaze was contained quickly, allowing emergency teams to clear the building. Over 40 people were rescued and transported to hospitals, though the total number of occupants at the time of the fire is still unclear.
Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes, with many victims found unconscious-some under beds, others in washrooms. Wasim, a local resident who assisted in rescue efforts, recounted finding a couple embracing in a washroom, both deceased.
A shopkeeper opposite the building spread quilts on the ground to soften the impact for those jumping from upper floors. Several survivors were among those who leapt to safety.
Victims include foreign nationals
While authorities have not released an official list of the deceased, local media cited sources indicating that many victims were foreign nationals. Lawmaker Satish Upadhyay noted that several were from Bangladesh and other South Asian countries, while others came from African and Central Asian nations, primarily for medical care.
Government response and compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced financial aid: 200,000 rupees ($2,088) for families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees for the injured. By evening, rescue operations were nearly complete, though ambulances remained on standby as debris clearance continued.
Persistent fire safety failures in India
Fires are frequent in India, where building safety regulations are often poorly enforced. Past incidents in factories, coaching centers, hospitals, and entertainment venues have highlighted gaps between written safety rules and their real-world application.
Investigations typically cite lax inspections, faulty electrical systems, and buildings operating beyond their approved purposes as contributing factors.
