At least 21 people have died after a fire swept through a four-storey hotel in Malviya Nagar, Delhi, on Wednesday, with Nigerians among 18 foreign nationals confirmed dead, according to police and local media reports.
Authorities said victims included nationals from Nigeria, Bangladesh, Mozambique and Liberia. Many of those staying at the facility had travelled to India for medical care or to accompany relatives receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.
The building, which functioned as a guesthouse and informal accommodation for patients’ families, reportedly housed a small restaurant on the ground floor. Investigators believe the fire may have started in that section before spreading rapidly through the structure.
Emergency services said the blaze broke out shortly before 9 a.m. local time (0330 GMT). Eight fire engines were deployed to the scene, and the fire was brought under control around midday.
Police stated that more than 40 people were rescued and transferred to nearby hospitals, including the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Officials at All India Institute of Medical Sciences confirmed receiving 13 patients, with two in critical condition.
Witnesses described chaotic evacuation efforts as flames and smoke filled the building. Some residents and bystanders attempted to assist those trapped inside by placing mattresses on the street to cushion jumps from upper floors. Video footage showed individuals leaping from the upper levels as the fire intensified.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on social media, noting that authorities were supporting those affected.
Officials have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire and the safety conditions of the building, which local reports say was not formally registered as a standard hotel.
