NEW DELHI — In one of the most devastating structural disasters in the national capital in recent years, at least 21 people—including twelve foreign nationals—were killed after a massive fire tore through a luxury hotel early Thursday morning.
The blaze broke out around 3:30 AM while most guests were asleep, quickly trapping occupants inside the multi-story building located in a high-density commercial district of Delhi.
Fire Traps Sleeping Guests; Brave Rescue Efforts Underway
According to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS), over 25 fire tenders were rushed to the spot after receiving an emergency call. Thick black smoke filled the central stairwells and corridors within minutes, cutting off primary escape routes and leading to asphyxiation for several victims.
Firefighters used hydraulic platforms and extended ladders to rescue more than 50 people from the upper floors and rooftop.
“The fire appears to have originated on the second floor due to a suspected short-circuit in the central air conditioning ducting and rapidly spread upwards via wood-paneled walls,” a senior DFS official stated at the scene. “Regrettably, 21 individuals could not be saved, and their bodies have been shifted to Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital for post-mortem examination.”
Deep Diplomatic Impact: 12 Foreigners Confirmed Dead
Local authorities have confirmed that out of the 21 deceased, twelve are foreign nationals who were visiting the capital on business and leisure trips. The victims reportedly include citizens from Southeast Asia and Europe.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has set up an emergency coordination desk to work alongside local police and foreign embassies to expedite the identification process and assist with the repatriation of mortal remains.
Emergency response units noted that several guests attempted to escape the intense heat by jumping from their room windows, resulting in critical impact injuries. At least 15 others are currently undergoing treatment in intensive care units across city hospitals.
Security Inquest: Fire Safety Violations Flagged
The Delhi Police have formally registered an FIR under Sections of the law pertaining to culpable homicide not amounting to murder and causing death by negligence.
Preliminary inspections by municipal authorities indicate major compliance lapses, including:
- Blocked Emergency Exits: Rear escape routes were reportedly being used as temporary storage spaces by hotel management.
- Malfunctioning Alarms: Survivors reported that the internal smoke detectors and automated fire sprinkler systems failed to activate during the initial stages of the blaze.
- Illegal Rooftop Structures: Temporary fiberglass structures erected on the terrace further restricted ventilation, compounding the smoke accumulation.
The Delhi Government has ordered a high-level magisterial inquiry into the incident, promising stringent criminal action against the building owners and any municipal officials found guilty of overlooking safety protocols.
