21 Killed in Massive Fire at Malviya Nagar Building; Several Critically Injured

At least 21 people were killed and several others injured after a massive fire broke out in a building in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on Wednesday morning, officials said.

More than 40 people were rescued from the premises and shifted to nearby hospitals, where 21 were declared dead on arrival.

Authorities fear the death toll could rise as several of the injured remain in critical condition. Many of those killed are believed to be foreign nationals.

The Delhi Fire Service received information about the blaze at around 8.45 am and rushed multiple fire tenders to the spot. Rescue teams launched an extensive operation to evacuate those trapped inside the building.

The victims were transported to hospitals by CATS ambulances for treatment. Officials said the condition of several injured persons was not immediately known.

The incident occurred in a building located in the narrow lanes of Hauz Rani. The property, identified as Flourish Stay B&B, housed foreign nationals and also had a restaurant operating in its basement. Earlier, officials had stated that the fire had broken out at the Lemon Green Restaurant. However, police later clarified that the blaze originated at the B&B.

Reacting to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced financial assistance for the victims’ families.

“The loss of lives due to a fire incident in Malviya Nagar, Delhi is tragic. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. Wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. 

Authorities are providing all possible assistance to those affected,” Modi said in a post on X.

The Prime Minister also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured.

AAP leader Somnath Bharti, who visited the site, described the incident as “extremely tragic and horrific.”
“Some people are still trapped in the upper rooms. This building was operating as a hotel; it was previously a Khadi Gram building,” Bharti said.

He further alleged delays in the emergency response, stating, “The most unfortunate part is that the fire brigade reached the spot nearly an hour later, at least 50 minutes after the incident was reported.”

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also expressed sorrow over the tragedy and said all emergency agencies were mobilised immediately after the incident was reported.

“My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and for strength and courage to all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy,” 

Gupta said in a post on X.
She added that teams from the Delhi Fire Service, Delhi Police, DDMA, CATS Ambulance Services and other emergency response agencies were deployed for rescue and relief efforts.

“In this hour of grief, the Delhi Government stands firmly with the affected families. We remain committed to providing every possible support to those impacted by this tragedy,” Gupta said.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also condoled the loss of lives and urged the Delhi government to ensure timely compensation and medical assistance for the victims.

He called upon state authorities to provide adequate compensation and prompt medical care to those affected, and urged Congress workers to extend all possible support to the victims and their families.