New Delhi | 03 June 2026
A massive fire that tore through a restaurant‑cum‑lodging facility in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on Wednesday morning has claimed 21 lives, with officials warning that the toll may rise as several victims remain in critical condition.
The blaze erupted around 9:45 a.m. at the Flourish Stay / Lemon Green restaurant‑B&B complex located in the congested Hauz Rani locality, an area known for narrow lanes and limited access for emergency vehicles. Fire officials deployed multiple tenders and evacuated more than 40 people, many of whom were rushed to nearby hospitals, including Max Hospital and AIIMS.
🔥 How the Incident Unfolded
Eyewitnesses reported thick smoke engulfing the building within minutes, forcing several occupants to jump from upper floors in desperation. Visuals captured two women leaping from the structure as flames spread rapidly from the ground‑floor restaurant to the upper levels of the six‑storey building.
Residents said the fire intensified after a glass panel shattered, allowing flames to surge toward the basement where several people were trapped. Firefighters later rescued three individuals from the basement, though many others were found severely burnt.
🚨 Foreign Nationals Among Victims
Authorities confirmed that several of the deceased were foreign nationals, including individuals from African and SAARC countries who were staying at the B&B while accompanying patients receiving medical treatment in Delhi.
🏥 Injuries and Police Personnel Affected
At least 10 police personnel, including head constables and constables, were injured during the rescue operation after being among the first to enter the smoke‑filled building. They are currently undergoing treatment.
⚖️ FIR and Investigation
Delhi Police have registered an FIR under culpable homicide and other relevant sections, citing possible negligence and illegal structural modifications. Early reports suggest the establishment was licensed for only six rooms but was allegedly operating 25 rooms, raising serious questions about regulatory oversight.
Forensic teams are examining the site to determine the exact cause of the fire, though initial assessments indicate it began on the ground floor before rapidly spreading upward.
🏛️ Government Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief and announced ₹2 lakh compensation for families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured under the PMNRF. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also conveyed condolences and assured strict action against those responsible.
Delhi Minister Ashish Sood stated that the building owner would be arrested and that illegal structures contributing to such tragedies would face immediate action.
📌 What Comes Next
With rescue operations concluded and investigations underway, authorities are now focusing on identifying victims, supporting families, and assessing the extent of safety violations. The incident has reignited debate over fire safety compliance in Delhi’s densely populated neighbourhoods.