MEA coordinating with foreign embassies after Malviya Nagar hotel fire

A massive fire at the Flourish Stay B&B hotel in Delhi's Malviya Nagar has resulted in the deaths of 21 people, with 17 of the victims being foreign nationals. The blaze, which broke out early Wednesday morning, also left over 40 people rescued, though many sustained serious injuries.

Victims are being treated at Max Healthcare Group hospitals, where eight individuals remain on ventilator support in critical condition. Medical reports indicate that most injuries are due to smoke inhalation, with some patients also suffering from burns and fractures sustained while attempting to escape the fire. One patient required transfer to a specialized burn ward.

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The majority of them have suffered from asphyxiation injuries, which are caused by smoke inhalation. All of them have minor burns, not deep burns.

Initial inspections of the building have highlighted severe structural and fire safety deficiencies. The hotel, reportedly operating 25 rooms despite having permission for only six under the bed-and-breakfast scheme, lacked adequate ventilation and escape routes. Officials described the building's design as a "chimney," which facilitated the rapid spread of smoke and heat, trapping occupants. The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating with foreign embassies to provide assistance to the affected families.

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The structure acted like a "chimney", causing smoke and heat to spread rapidly to upper floors and trapping occupants.