A major fire at a hospitality building in south Delhi’s Malviya Nagar has left at least 21 people dead, with investigators still working to establish what triggered the blaze and how it spread.

Initial reports identified the site as the Lemon Green restaurant, but authorities later clarified that the fire originated at the Flourish Stay B&B in Hauz Rani. The building housed a restaurant on the ground floor, with hotel accommodation on the upper levels.

Fire breaks out in early morning hours

The incident occurred on Wednesday in a five-storey structure with a basement, ground floor and multiple upper floors. Officials said the fire broke out around 8.30 am, while eyewitness accounts placed visible flames closer to 9 am.

At least 21 people have died so far, according to officials, though the toll is not final. More than 40 others were rescued and taken to hospitals, with several reported to be in critical condition.

Probe centres on ignition source

Fire and police teams are conducting a joint inquiry into the cause of the blaze and its rapid spread through the building.

Preliminary inputs suggest the fire may have started on the ground floor where the restaurant was functioning at the time. Officials say the flames then moved quickly through the structure.

The exact ignition source remains unknown. Investigators have not ruled out multiple possibilities.

Safety compliance and exit design under review

Authorities are examining whether mandatory fire safety requirements were followed, including clearance documentation and operational compliance.

Police sources said the building had only one entry and exit point, which is also being assessed in relation to evacuation difficulties during the incident.

The role of internal layout and safety provisions in the scale of the tragedy is part of the ongoing investigation.

Basement rescues during heavy smoke

Firefighters entered the basement during operations and rescued 37 people trapped in dense smoke conditions.

The confined space is believed to have significantly complicated evacuation efforts. Officials are reviewing whether structural design and escape routes contributed to delays as the fire spread.

Eyewitness accounts and rescue efforts

Witnesses reported flames and smoke engulfing the building, with some people breaking windows and jumping from upper floors to escape.

Local residents assisted before emergency services arrived, including using mattresses to cushion falls and helping injured people with basic first aid.

Ambulances transported victims to nearby hospitals, including AIIMS, where multiple patients were admitted, including both those injured in the fire and rescue personnel.

Site sealed as investigation continues

The building has been severely damaged, with debris and burnt material scattered across the site. The area remains cordoned off while forensic and fire teams continue their assessment.

Officials have not yet determined the cause of the fire. The investigation remains focused on ignition, spread dynamics and safety compliance at the premises