At least 21 people have lost their lives and dozens more were injured after a devastating fire swept through a multi-storey building in South Delhi, triggering one of the deadliest blazes in the Indian capital in recent years.
The tragedy unfolded in the Malviya Nagar area, where the building was allegedly operating as a bed-and-breakfast facility catering to patients and their relatives seeking treatment at a nearby private hospital.
Authorities said more than 40 people were rescued and rushed to nearby hospitals. However, officials have yet to determine exactly how many occupants were inside the building when the fire erupted. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
Local media reported that many of the victims were foreign nationals from South Asia, Africa and Central Asia who had travelled to India either for medical treatment or to accompany family members receiving care.
Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within a short period, preventing it from spreading further. Emergency crews later searched the heavily damaged structure for survivors and victims trapped inside.
Witnesses described horrifying scenes as rescuers entered smoke-filled rooms and discovered unconscious people in hotel rooms, washrooms and corridors. Some survivors were reportedly found hiding beneath beds in a desperate attempt to escape the flames.
One local resident who joined rescue efforts said he found the bodies of a couple embracing each other inside a washroom. Another witness claimed several unconscious victims were revived after bystanders performed CPR while waiting for medical teams to arrive.
A shop owner located opposite the building said he laid quilts on the ground to cushion people who were forced to jump from upper floors to escape the inferno. According to eyewitnesses, several people survived after leaping from the building.
Delhi authorities have launched an investigation to determine whether the property possessed the required licences and approvals to operate as a guest accommodation facility. Officials warned that anyone found responsible for safety violations could face criminal prosecution.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and announced financial assistance for those affected by the tragedy.
The incident has once again drawn attention to recurring concerns over fire safety standards in India, where investigations into previous deadly blazes have frequently highlighted inadequate inspections, faulty electrical systems and buildings operating beyond their approved purposes.
