Delhi Hotel Fire: 17 Foreign Nationals among 21 dead in Malviya Nagar tragedy
At least 21 people, including 17 foreign nationals, lost their lives in the devastating fire that engulfed a hotel and bed-and-breakfast establishment in Delhi's Malviya Nagar area on Wednesday. Several others were injured, with eight victims currently on ventilator support in hospitals, officials said.
The fire broke out in the multi-storey building in the Hauz Rani locality of South Delhi, triggering a massive rescue operation involving the Delhi Fire Services, police, disaster management teams, and medical personnel. More than 40 people were rescued from the smoke-filled structure and rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities said many of the deceased were foreign nationals, primarily from African and Central Asian countries, who were staying at the accommodation. Several survivors remain in critical condition and are receiving intensive medical care.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as thick smoke rapidly engulfed the building, forcing some occupants to jump from upper floors in a desperate attempt to escape. Local residents joined rescue efforts, helping evacuate trapped guests before emergency responders arrived.
Investigators are examining possible violations of fire safety and building regulations. Preliminary reports suggest the property may have been operating beyond its approved capacity, while authorities continue to probe the exact cause of the blaze.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta have expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured all possible assistance to those affected by the tragedy.
