Malviya Nagar fire: 20 dead, 37 rescued; CM Rekha Gupta vows full aid
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday, 3 June, condoled the deaths in the Malviya Nagar fire and pledged the government's full support to those affected, after a massive blaze tore through the multi-storied Lemon Green Restaurant building in south Delhi.
Key developments
At least 20 people were killed and dozens injured after the fire broke out on Wednesday morning, officials said. So far, 37 people have been rescued and shifted to hospital, while search operations continue for others feared trapped inside the building.
Some of the injured are reported to be in critical condition. According to officials, several occupants attempted to jump from the upper floors of the structure in a bid to escape the flames.
What the Chief Minister said
In a statement, CM Gupta said, ‘Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the devastating fire incident in Malviya Nagar. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and for strength & courage to all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.'
She added that immediately upon receiving information about the incident, teams of Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), CATS Ambulance Services and other emergency response agencies were mobilised for rescue and relief.
‘Their swift response helped in rescuing & evacuating several persons from the affected premises,' she said. ‘Delhi Govt. is closely monitoring the situation. All necessary medical assistance & support are being extended to the affected families. In this hour of grief, the Delhi Govt. stands firmly with the affected families,' the Chief Minister added.
Rescue and response
Ten fire tenders were dispatched to the spot soon after the blaze was reported, and the fire was eventually brought under control, though the damage was extensive. Senior officials from Delhi Police, Delhi Fire Services and rescue agencies remain stationed at the site.
Rescue teams are combing through different floors of the gutted building to locate anyone still trapped. The injured have been moved to a nearby hospital for treatment.
What happens next
Authorities are expected to order a probe into the cause of the fire and the building's compliance with fire-safety norms. The incident adds to a growing list of commercial-establishment fires in the capital that have raised questions over enforcement of safety audits in densely built-up neighbourhoods.