Staff Reporters / New Delhi
At least 21 people were killed, including several foreign nationals, and more than 40 others rescued after a massive fire broke out at a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar this morning. The fire broke out around 8.50 am in the restaurant of the Flourish Stay hotel, which was reportedly located in the basement of the five-storey building. The fire later spread to another hotel, Micasa Inn, next to it.
An official said that two water engines, two water bowsers, a quick-response vehicle and other firefighting units were sent after they received the distress call from the predominantly residential area, which is densely populated and is popular with students and young professionals.
The death toll was reported to be four initially, however authorities later confirmed that at least 21 people lost their lives in the incident. The identities of the victims are yet to be officially released. Police said the condition of the injured would be assessed by doctors, and further details would emerge after medical evaluations are completed.
Photo by Bir Bahadur Yadav
What caused fire in Delhi’s Maviya Nagar restaurant?
While authorities are yet to release an official cause, preliminary information suggests that the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit. Investigators are examining the electrical systems and other possible factors that could have sparked the blaze.
Fire department officials and Delhi Police teams continued inspecting the site even after the flames were brought under control. A detailed investigation is expected to determine what triggered the blaze and whether any safety violations contributed to the tragedy.
PM announces ex-gratia for victims’ families
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s office expressed grief over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims. In a statement shared by the Prime Minister’s Office, he wished a speedy recovery to those injured and said authorities were providing all possible assistance to the affected.
The PMO also announced financial aid from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), with Rs 2 lakh to be given to the next of kin of each deceased victim and Rs 50,000 to those injured in the incident.