A devastating fire at the Flourish Stay Bed & Breakfast in Delhi's Malviya Nagar area has sparked serious concerns about emergency exits, electronic locking systems, and multiple safety violations. The blaze on Wednesday resulted in 21 deaths and left 20 others injured.
Residents reported that the hotel's electronic systems failed once the power was cut during the fire, allegedly trapping guests inside rooms equipped with key-card operated locks. Mohit, a local resident, explained: "The moment the electricity went out, the main gate became completely jammed. The hotel staff used a control button to operate the gate, but because of the fire and power failure, it stopped functioning and people got trapped inside."
Locals further noted that the property had an electronically operated main gate, which was routinely locked at night with an additional iron grille gate placed outside after 11 pm. Rescue teams had to break through these barriers to reach those trapped inside.
Single Entry and Exit Point
The building reportedly had only one entry and exit point, with no separate external fire escape. When the fire broke out in the basement, smoke quickly spread through the staircase, cutting off the only evacuation route for guests on upper floors. Residents also highlighted fully sealed windows and a tightly enclosed façade, which they said prevented ventilation and worsened smoke build-up.
Multiple Safety Violations Found
Preliminary findings have flagged numerous violations. The B&B was permitted to operate with six rooms but had expanded to 25 rooms. Officials also found no smoke detectors, automated fire alarms, sprinkler systems, or fire no-objection certificate.
Investigators suspect that LPG cylinders and other combustible material stored in the basement may have accelerated the spread of the fire. The ground floor housed a restaurant, while the kitchen was reportedly functioning from the basement.
Victims and Rescue Efforts
The blaze broke out while the property was hosting around 50 guests and spread to a neighboring inn. At least nine of the identified victims were foreign nationals who had come to India for medical treatment. Lavkesh Bajaj, the owner of the facility, has been arrested, and police have registered a case of culpable homicide.
Officials said many guests were forced to jump from upper floors to escape, while locals helped by bringing mattresses and blankets to cushion their fall. Firefighters, police, and residents together rescued around 50 people during the operation.
