(Image source from: AP)
A large blaze erupted at a multi-story eatery located in the Malviya Nagar region of Delhi on Wednesday morning, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 individuals and injuring many more, as reported by the Delhi Police. Officials indicated that among the deceased, several were foreigners predominantly from Central Asia and Africa. Earlier that day, authorities mentioned that the fire ignited at Lemon Green Restaurant at 8:45 am. However, police later clarified that the actual incident occurred at the Flourish Stay B&B in Hauz Rani, within the densely populated Malviya Nagar area. According to officials from the Delhi Fire Service (DFS), they received alerts regarding the fire around 9:45 am, prompting the dispatch of numerous fire trucks and rescue teams to the scene. This event took place within the jurisdiction of the Nehru Place fire station. The authorities stated that the fire began at approximately 8:50 am.
Fire officer AK Malik informed the media: "From our discussions with people at the location, we have learned that this building does not serve as a separate residential facility. Instead, it seems that many of the residents were relatives of patients being treated at MAX Hospital, which is located directly across the street. Hence, it is probable that these individuals were staying here for that reason. . . Yes, some foreign nationals were among the residents. " The owner of the hotel has been named as Lokesh Bajaj. Reports indicate that there are three partners managing the hotel, who are also known to own various other hotels and guesthouses. According to sources from the Delhi Police, as cited by News18, the hotel had only one main entrance and exit. This limitation on escape routes may have left guests trapped as smoke and flames rapidly spread through the building, raising significant concerns about adherence to safety regulations.
Delhi Minister Ashish Sood visited the site and stated that those accountable for the oversight will face arrest. "The building owner who is responsible for the negligence will be taken into custody. We will not tolerate any illegal structures and will ensure that those found guilty are held accountable. We are investigating whether the building had obtained the necessary NoC. We are checking if permission was granted to operate the BnB," Sood was quoted by ANI. Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow over the loss of lives in the Malviya Nagar hotel fire and announced financial compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the family members of each deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. In its preliminary announcement, the Delhi Fire Service stated that three people trapped in the basement of the restaurant were rescued by firefighters and transported to the hospital using CATS ambulances. Divisional Officer Ravinder from the Nehru Place fire station was on-site, overseeing the firefighting and rescue operations, as reported by officials. According to a PTI report referencing the Delhi Police, 11 injured individuals were evacuated from the building and received medical attention in the hospital.
Jitendra Kumar, the SDM of DDMA in the South District, spoke to the media: “This morning, when I got the news about the incident, we set our DDMA team in motion right away. We informed all Emergency Operations Centers and told them to head to the location at once. I had planned to attend a training session, but I delayed it to come here instead. When I got here, we found out that a restaurant was operating on the first floor of the building”.
“We still do not know the exact reason for the fire, but it most likely started from the restaurant. However, we do not have full details at this time. Four bodies have been found and sent to the hospital. We are waiting for official updates about their conditions and identities. Additionally, seven to eight other individuals, including those who were hurt, have been taken to the hospital for treatment,” he added. As reported by News 18, the hotel had received a license from the Government of Delhi under the "Bed and Breakfast" scheme. The license apparently allowed only six rooms. However, the report indicates that the hotel was operating 25 rooms, which included those in the basement.
Regarding the restaurant fire in Malviya Nagar, CM Rekha Gupta stated, “I am very upset about the tragic loss of life in the terrible fire incident in Malviya Nagar. My sincere sympathies go out to the affected families. I hope for a quick recovery for those who were hurt and for strength and courage for everyone affected by this sad event. As soon as we received information about the incident, teams from Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, DDMA, CATS Ambulance Services, and other emergency agencies were dispatched to carry out rescue and relief efforts. Their rapid action helped to save and evacuate many people from the affected area. The Delhi Government is closely observing the situation. We are providing all necessary medical help and support to the families affected. During this time of sorrow, the Delhi Government stands by the affected families. We are dedicated to offering all possible assistance to those affected by this tragedy”.
On Wednesday, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his sorrow over the loss of life in the fire tragedy in Malviya Nagar and requested that the state government give sufficient and prompt compensation, including immediate medical care for the injured. In a message on X, Kharge wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic fire incident in Malviya Nagar, Delhi. My heartfelt sympathies are with the families who lost their loved ones, and I pray for the prompt recovery of the injured. ” He emphasized that the state government must ensure adequate and timely compensation, along with swift medical care for the victims.
