Malviya Nagar B&B had no fire NOC, one exit, unauthorised cylinders

The devastating fire that broke out at the Flourish Stay ‘bed-and-breakfast’ in Malviya Nagar’s Hauz Rani area around 6.30 am on Wednesday has exposed possible safety lapses, illegal building expansions, and fire safety violations.

Twenty-one people died, most of them foreign nationals visiting for medical treatment. At least 20 others were hospitalised, including 17 foreigners.

Investigators said the hotel was licensed for only 6 rooms under Delhi’s B&B policy, but was operating 25 rooms across all floors, far above the allowed limit.

The five-storey building lacked a fire safety NOC and had only one narrow stairway for entry and exit.

The stairway’s sensor-operated door failed during the emergency. Sealed windows prevented escape, there were no emergency exits or proper evacuation routes, and the roof exit was blocked. Portable cooking heaters were also found in guest rooms, which increased the fire risk.

The fire reportedly started on the ground floor. The fire is believed to have started in the Lemon Green restaurant on the ground floor, which did not have an authorised gas connection. Police found four commercial gas cylinders at the scene and suspect they were used illegally, possibly causing the fire.

The restaurant staff left the premises, and investigators are looking for them. Vijay Kumar presented details of the investigation while addressing the media.

He stated: “The operational permit allowed only 6 rooms, but the facility had 25 rooms in use. A restaurant operated on the ground floor without an authorised gas connection, and four gas cylinders were found on the premises, indicating their use. The restaurant staff have left the premises, and we are gathering information on their whereabouts.” He confirmed that relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita have been invoked, specifically Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), along with provisions covering negligent acts endangering life, mischief by fire, and negligent conduct regarding fire. Kumar added, “Relevant legal provisions have been applied,” and reported that the investigation began the previous day.

Owner Lavkesh Bajaj (60) who lives in Saket and runs several hospitality businesses, was arrested late Wednesday after allegedly trying to avoid the police.

During questioning, he admitted to making illegal expansions for profit and reportedly said, “Delhi mein sab chalta hai” (everything works in Delhi). Sources said Bajaj drove past the burning building but did not stop to help, later saying he was afraid. He is in police custody for four days, and authorities say he has not cooperated with the investigation.

Two of Bajaj’s other nearby properties are also being checked for similar violations and have been sealed. An earlier FIR was reportedly filed against this building in 2024 for breaking codes. This situation raises questions about how civic agencies like the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the fire department, and the electricity board monitor compliance with regulations.

The incident has led to public concern regarding safety and regulatory systems. Opposition leaders have raised questions about the reported delay in fire tenders reaching the congested area where the incident occurred.

Trade bodies have called for a comprehensive safety audit of hotels and restaurants across Delhi and accountability for officials involved. The Delhi government has announced ex gratia payments of `10 lakh for the families of the deceased and `5 lakh for the seriously injured.

The government has also ordered further action regarding unauthorised commercial establishments in Delhi’s South Zone.

Most of the victims were medical tourists from countries like Liberia, Nigeria, Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Turkmenistan. An Indian family of eight from Gurugram, who were visiting a patient at a nearby hospital, was also among those who died.

At least eight patients are still in critical condition on ventilators at Max Hospital because of severe smoke inhalation and asphyxiation. Forensic teams are still examining the site as more details come out.

Police have set up several teams to find the missing restaurant staff and others under investigation. The case points to ongoing safety and compliance problems in the area. More arrests and action against officials are expected.