A devastating fire ripped through a hotel in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on Wednesday morning, killing as many as 21 persons, including several foreign nationals, while more than 40 people were rescued in a large-scale emergency operation. The catastrophic incident has sparked serious concerns over possible safety lapses and alleged violations of licensing norms at the facility.
A visual from the scene
Blaze broke out in basement of hotel
According to officials, the blaze broke out at 8:45 am in the restaurant area of Flourish Stay, a hotel situated in the basement of a fire-storey building in the Hauz Rani area. The flames assumed a fierce form rapidly and eventually spread to the neighbouring Micasa Inn Hotel, sending a wave of panic among guests and locals.
After distress calls were made to the emergency teams, the personnel rushed to the scene, which is home to a large student and working professional population. Firefighters deployed multiple units, including water engines, water bowsers and a quick-response vehicle, to contain the flames.
Authorities have still not been able to ascertain what triggered the fire.
Dramatic escapes ensue amid chaos
Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes as trapped guests attempted to escape the rapidly spreading flames. Several people were spotted breaking windows and leaping from the upper floors of the burning building. Videos circulating on social media showed mattresses laid out on the ground to cushion the impact for those forced to jump to safety. A witness told the media, “I saw four to six people breaking the glass and jumping from the building to escape the fire. One person’s leg allegedly broke after he leaped.”
Two foreigners staying at the hotel trying to escape the building
Sources said the hotel, owned by one Lokesh Bajaj, reportedly had 25 rooms and was accommodating more than 40 guests when the incident transpired. Several foreign visitors staying in Delhi for medical treatment were among the occupants. According to reports, many guests were asleep when the inferno broke out.
Safety compliance under question
The deadly impact of the tragedy has prompted scrutiny of the hotel’s operational and safety credentials. As per sources, Flourish Stay had been granted permission to function under a bed-and-breakfast (B&B) license, under which only six rooms were supposed to be laid. However, the establishment was operating around 25 rooms, including accommodation in the basement.
The investigating police personnel are also examining whether the hotel possessed a valid no-objection certificate (NOC). Officials took note of the fact that the building only had a single entry and exit point, raising further concerns about emergency preparedness.
PM, Delhi CM condole deaths
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi termed the incident ‘tragic’ and announced a solatium of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the ones who lost their lives. He added that the injured persons shall receive an aid of Rs 50,000.
Delhi Chief Minister (CM) Rekha Gupta too echoed similar sentiments. She said all relevant agencies, including Delhi Fire Services (DFS), Delhi Police, DDMA and ambulance services were immediately mobilised upon receipt of the information for rescue and relief operations.