A devastating fire at a budget hotel in New Delhi, India, has killed at least 21 people and injured over 40 others. The blaze erupted this morning at Flourish Stay, located in a crowded residential area in the city's southern part. This incident is considered one of the most tragic fires in the Indian capital in recent years.
Police confirmed 21 fatalities and stated that search and rescue operations are continuing. Over 40 injured individuals were transported to hospitals, with one facility reporting 8 people in critical condition. "We are deeply saddened that 21 people have been confirmed dead in this tragic fire," a police statement read.
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Flames and black smoke engulfed a lodge in New Delhi, India on 3/6. Photo: AP |
Images broadcast on Indian television showed intense flames engulfing the building, with columns of black smoke rising into the sky. The hotel comprised a ground-floor restaurant and guest rooms on its upper levels. Trapped on the upper floors, some guests resorted to jumping onto mattresses laid out by local residents on the street below. A local resident recounted, "Some people jumped from the second and third floors."
Local legislator Satish Upadhyay noted that 47 guests were staying at the hotel when the fire broke out. Indian Express and other Indian media reported that some of the deceased were African tourists who had traveled to the city for medical treatment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the fire as a "tragedy" and extended his condolences to the victims' families.
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The scene after the lodge fire in New Delhi. Photo: AFP |
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though initial reports suggest the hotel had only one entrance and lacked proper ventilation. "An investigation will be conducted. Anyone found to have violated regulations and responsible for the fire will be arrested immediately," legislator Upadhyay affirmed. The last major fire in New Delhi occurred in 2019, claiming the lives of 43 sleeping workers in a building in the old quarter.
Thanh Tam (According to AFP)
