Delhi hotel fire claims 21 lives, dozens rescued in major rescue operation
A devastating fire at a hotel complex in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area on Wednesday left at least 21 people dead and several others injured, making it one of the deadliest fire incidents in the national capital in recent years. Authorities said more than 40 people were rescued from the building during an extensive emergency response operation.
The blaze broke out during the morning hours in a multi-storey building that housed a restaurant on the lower level and hotel accommodation on the upper floors. Firefighters, police personnel and local residents joined rescue efforts as flames and thick smoke rapidly spread through the structure.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as several occupants attempted to escape through windows and balconies. Residents in the neighbourhood reportedly brought mattresses onto the street to help cushion those who jumped from upper floors while trying to flee the fire.
Officials deployed multiple fire engines and rescue units to the site. Emergency teams managed to bring the blaze under control after several hours and transported survivors to nearby hospitals for treatment. Some of the injured were reported to be in critical condition.
Preliminary findings indicate that the fire may have originated in the restaurant section of the building before spreading to other floors, though investigators are continuing to examine the exact cause. Authorities have also begun reviewing whether safety regulations and building norms were adequately followed.