Delhi fire: Hotel had permission for 6 rooms, allegedly operated 25

What was meant to be a budget accommodation for visitors seeking medical treatment in Delhi has now emerged as the centre of a devastating tragedy.

The massive fire that tore through the Flourish Stay bed-and-breakfast in South Delhi's Hauz Rani area on Wednesday claimed at least 21 lives and has triggered serious questions over safety compliance and regulatory oversight.

Sources said the property had been granted permission under the Delhi government's Bed and Breakfast (B&B) scheme, which allows a maximum of six rooms to be operated. However, the establishment was allegedly functioning with 25 rooms, including several located in the basement.

The fire broke out Wednesday morning at the Flourish Stay bed-and-breakfast hotel in the congested Hauz Rani locality, triggering panic among dozens of trapped occupants.

Around 40 guests were reportedly staying at the hotel when the blaze erupted. Many were asleep and found themselves trapped as flames rapidly spread through the building.

The property, situated in narrow lanes near a major private hospital, was known to host foreign nationals visiting Delhi for medical treatment. Most of those who died in the incident are believed to be foreign guests.

Investigators are also examining multiple safety concerns linked to the hotel. According to Delhi Police, the building had only one entry and exit point despite accommodating a large number of guests, raising questions about emergency evacuation measures.

Authorities are probing whether all mandatory safety norms were followed. While sources indicated that the hotel possessed the required fire safety clearances, investigators are examining whether the property's actual operations matched the permissions granted.

Dramatic visuals from the scene captured the desperation of those trapped inside.

Two women were seen jumping from the upper floors in a bid to escape the flames, while residents rushed to assist them using mattresses placed on the road below.

(The video contains disturbing visuals. Viewers' discretion is advised.)

As rescue and investigation efforts continue, the tragedy has once again brought the spotlight on alleged violations, weak enforcement, and the human cost of ignoring safety norms.