At least 21 killed in hotel fire in New Delhi, dozens rescued as investigation begins

Local authorities said that the blaze erupted at a hotel located in the Malviya Nagar area of south Delhi, a densely populated residential neighbourhood frequented by students and young professionals

NEW DELHI: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-June 3rd, 2026) At least 21 people lost their lives in a devastating fire that broke out at a hotel in India’s capital Delhi on Wednesday, police confirmed, marking one of the most severe fire incidents in the city in recent years.

The local authorities said that the blaze erupted at a hotel located in the Malviya Nagar area of south Delhi, a densely populated residential neighbourhood frequented by students and young professionals. The fire started at around 8:50am local time.

A statement issued by Delhi Police confirmed that 21 people were killed in the incident, while more than 40 others were rescued from the building and shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Eyewitness footage aired on local television channels showed thick smoke engulfing the multi-storey building as flames tore through its structure. Charred walls and debris were visible, while residents gathered in narrow streets nearby to witness the aftermath. Some visuals also showed individuals jumping from upper floors in a desperate attempt to escape the fire.

Local administration official Jitendra Kumar said preliminary information suggested that a restaurant operating on the ground floor of the building may have been the source of the fire, although investigations were still underway to determine the exact cause.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as deeply tragic and extended condolences to the families of the victims. He also wished a speedy recovery for those injured, adding that authorities were providing all possible assistance to those affected.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on social media platform X that emergency response teams were immediately deployed after the incident was reported. She confirmed that rescue and relief operations were carried out on a priority basis and said the government was closely monitoring developments.

Officials said the fire had been brought under control, but the building sustained heavy damage. The exact cause of the blaze has not yet been determined, and a detailed investigation has been launched.

Authorities are expected to examine safety compliance measures and building regulations as part of the inquiry into the incident.