A massive fire broke out at a hotel in Delhi's Malviya Nagar, claiming the lives of 21 people, mostly foreign nationals. The blaze, suspected to be caused by a short circuit, spread rapidly from the kitchen to the upper floors. Rescue operations revealed severe safety violations, including a locked basement channel that fire brigade personnel had to cut open. As panic ensued, trapped guests jumped from the second and third floors. Local residents played a crucial role in the rescue by placing cotton mattresses on the ground to cushion the fall of those jumping, including a woman with a small child and several Nigerian nationals. Fire officials confirmed that 37 people were rescued and the building has been cordoned off. Authorities, including police and disaster management teams, are conducting a thorough investigation. Officials on the ground assured that strict action will be taken against the hotel owner, who is currently absconding, for gross negligence and flouting fire safety norms.
