Delhi hotel inferno kills 21, many foreign nationals among victims

Several of the victims were reportedly foreign nationals who had travelled to the national capital for medical treatment.

The blaze broke out at around 8:50 am at Flourish Stay, a bed-and-breakfast facility located in the Hauz Rani area near Saket.

According to officials, the fire originated in the restaurant operating in the basement of the five-storey building before rapidly spreading through the premises and later affecting the adjacent Micasa Inn hotel.

Emergency services launched a large-scale rescue operation as thick smoke and flames engulfed the structure, trapping dozens of guests inside.

Massive rescue operation launched

Following the distress call, authorities rushed multiple firefighting units to the scene, including two water engines, two water bowsers, a quick-response vehicle and other emergency resources.

Firefighters and rescue personnel worked to evacuate occupants from the building, rescuing more than 40 people.

Visuals from the scene showed some guests jumping from upper floors in desperate attempts to escape the flames.

Photo: Screen-grab from X

Officials said the hotel had around 25 rooms and was reportedly accommodating nearly 40 guests at the time of the incident. Most of them were believed to be asleep when the fire erupted.

Many guests had chosen to stay at the property because of its proximity to the nearby Max Super Speciality Hospital in Saket, a major healthcare facility that attracts patients from India and abroad.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire, and an investigation is underway.

Safety compliance under scrutiny

As investigators began examining the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, questions emerged over the hotel's licensing status and compliance with safety regulations.

Sources indicated that Flourish Stay had reportedly been granted permission under the Delhi government's Bed and Breakfast (B&B) scheme, which allegedly authorised only six rooms.

However, authorities are examining reports that the establishment was operating around 25 rooms, including accommodation in the basement area.

Photo: Screen-grab from X

Officials are also verifying whether the hotel possessed a valid fire no-objection certificate (NOC).

Another aspect under investigation is the building's evacuation infrastructure.

Preliminary information suggests the hotel had only a single entry and exit point, which may have complicated rescue efforts during the emergency.

Restaurant chef recounts moments before blaze

Kesar Singh, a chef employed at the hotel's restaurant, described the events leading up to the fire.

According to him, he was preparing to start work at approximately 8.00 am when he attempted to switch on an electric stove.

“I immediately alerted my assistant that the hotel was on fire,” he said.

Singh said he quickly realised that flames had already spread extensively throughout the building.

“When I stepped outside, I saw that the entire hotel was on fire. I somehow managed to escape,” he added.

Investigators are expected to examine whether any electrical fault or equipment malfunction contributed to the incident.

PM announces financial assistance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced financial support for the families of those affected.

Describing the incident as “tragic”, the Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to the victims' families.

“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,” the Prime Minister's Office said in a post on X.

The Prime Minister also announced ex gratia assistance of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased victim. Injured persons will receive Rs 50,000.

Photo: Screen-grab from X

Delhi govt 'monitoring' situation

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also expressed sorrow over the tragedy and said emergency agencies responded immediately after receiving information about the fire.

“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,” she said in a statement posted on X.

Gupta stated that personnel from Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), CATS Ambulance Services and other emergency response agencies were mobilised without delay.

“Their swift response helped in rescuing and evacuating several persons from the affected premises,” she said.

The Chief Minister added that the Delhi government was closely monitoring developments and ensuring assistance for affected families.

“All necessary medical assistance and support are being extended to the affected families. In this hour of grief Delhi Govt. stands firmly with the affected families. We remain committed to providing every possible support to those impacted by this tragedy,” Gupta said.

Investigation continues

Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the fire, focusing on the source of the blaze, the building's safety infrastructure and compliance with licensing regulations.

Officials are also assessing whether any lapses in fire safety measures or occupancy norms contributed to one of the deadliest hotel fire incidents reported in the national capital in recent years.