INDIA: At least 21 people were killed and several others injured in a fire at a hotel in India’s capital New Delhi on Wednesday, police said, marking one of the deadliest fire incidents in the city in recent years.
The fire broke out at a hotel located in Malviya Nagar, South Delhi, a densely populated residential area known for housing students and young professionals. Authorities said at least 40 people have been rescued from the building so far.
Television footage showed flames engulfing the structure, with thick smoke rising from the upper floors and charred sections visible on the exterior. Panic was seen in the surrounding narrow lanes as residents gathered outside. Visuals also showed at least two individuals jumping from upper floors in an attempt to escape the blaze.
Officials said a restaurant was reportedly operating on the ground floor of the building. “It is most likely that the fire was connected to that restaurant,” said local administration official Jitendra Kumar, adding that the exact cause is under investigation.
Emergency services continued rescue and recovery operations as authorities worked to determine the full extent of casualties and damage.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the incident, calling the loss of lives “tragic” and extended sympathies to the families of the deceased while wishing a swift recovery to the injured.