New Delhi, June 4: Following the tragic fire incident in Malviya Nagar that claimed 21 lives, authorities have launched a comprehensive survey and investigation in the Hauz Rani area of South Delhi. Officials have warned that strict action will be taken against buildings violating construction and licensing regulations.
The Revenue Department has commenced inspections of hotels and commercial establishments within the Malviya Nagar sub-district. This inspection focuses on compliance with safety standards, licenses, and building construction regulations.
Mohammad Shameem, a representative of the Revenue Department, stated that notices are being issued to all hotels in the area. He emphasized that the investigation will assess the types of commercial activities conducted in the buildings, the number of rooms, the number of floors, and whether they possess the necessary licenses.
According to officials, a detailed report related to the inspections will be submitted to the department by the end of the day. Buildings found to exceed the prescribed height limit, especially those taller than five floors, may face legal action.
In the meantime, Delhi Police have arrested Lovkesh Bajaj, the owner of the hotel where the devastating fire occurred. His arrest took place while police were searching for him and his wife, both of whom were already subjects of a lookout circular.
The fire broke out at the Flourish Stay Bed and Breakfast hotel located in the densely populated Hauz Rani area of Malviya Nagar, resulting in 21 fatalities and numerous injuries.
Investigative agencies are now examining violations of safety standards, regulatory negligence, and potential lapses. They are also determining whether mandatory fire safety measures were in place at the hotel and if it was operating in compliance with legal regulations.
The Delhi Municipal Corporation has assured strict action against those found guilty. According to officials, action could commence within a week of receiving the investigation report.
Police have filed a case under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for culpable homicide not amounting to murder, among other relevant sections. The investigation primarily focuses on allegations of negligence and disregard for safety regulations that led to the loss of so many lives.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anant Mittal reported that 49 individuals were hospitalized due to the Malviya Nagar fire. So far, 21 people have died, including 9 Indian nationals and 12 foreign citizens. Eight patients have been discharged from the hospital, while others continue to receive treatment.
According to the Delhi Fire Service, the fire spread from the basement and ground floor to five upper floors of the Flourish Stay hotel. The flames and smoke affected multiple levels of the building. The investigation is ongoing.
Officials indicated that the fire broke out in the early hours and rapidly engulfed the entire multi-story building. Among the 21 victims, 17 were foreign nationals from countries such as Bangladesh, Liberia, Nigeria, and Mozambique.
Rescue teams successfully evacuated 47 individuals from the building, while 26 injured persons are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals in Delhi.
This incident has raised serious questions about compliance with fire safety regulations, illegal commercial activities, and the enforcement of building construction rules in densely populated areas of the national capital.
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