A devastating fire at a hotel and restaurant in Delhi has resulted in the deaths of at least 21 individuals and left over 40 others injured.
Witnesses reported seeing residents pulling mattresses from a nearby shop to assist those attempting to escape the flames by jumping from the burning structure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his sympathies and committed to providing financial assistance to those impacted by the incident.
According to police reports, the fire is among the most lethal incidents in the Indian capital in recent years, occurring in the Malviya Nagar area where the establishment featured a restaurant on the ground level and a bed and breakfast on the upper floors.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes as individuals leapt from the building to avoid the inferno, with one witness, Sher Khan, describing how a woman jumped from the third floor with a young child into a mattress below.
Images captured at the scene depict firefighters battling the flames as dense smoke poured from the building.
Local residents also joined the emergency responders, aiding in the evacuation of those trapped inside and assisting in transporting some of the injured to safety.
Delhi police reported that over 40 individuals were rescued and taken to local hospitals for treatment.
“It is with deep regret that we confirm 21 fatalities in this tragic event,” read a statement from the police.
According to a nearby hospital, eight individuals are currently in critical condition among the injured.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
“An investigation will be carried out, and anyone found culpable of violating safety regulations will face immediate arrest,” stated local politician Satish Upadhyay.
Reports indicate that some victims included foreign nationals who had come to India for medical care, as many international patients often stay in local accommodations while seeking treatment in New Delhi.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow regarding the situation, assuring that authorities are doing everything possible to assist those affected and announcing that families of the deceased would receive financial support.
