Malviya Nagar Fire: Death Toll Rises to 21 in South Delhi Restaurant Blaze

A devastating fire at a restaurant in Malviya Nagar claimed at least 21 lives on Wednesday, making it one of the deadliest fire incidents reported in the national capital in recent years.

The blaze broke out at the Lemon Green Restaurant, triggering a massive emergency response involving firefighters, police personnel, and disaster management teams. Several eyewitnesses alleged that poor ventilation inside the building may have contributed to the high number of casualties.

Massive Rescue Operation Launched

According to officials, the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) received an emergency call during the morning hours and immediately dispatched multiple firefighting units to the scene.

The rescue operation involved:

• Two water tenders
• Two water bowsers
• A quick-response vehicle
• Additional firefighting and emergency equipment

Firefighters worked intensively to control the blaze and evacuate those trapped inside the building.

Three People Rescued from Basement

Officials stated that three individuals were rescued from the basement of the restaurant during the operation.

The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals in ambulances operated by Centralized Accident and Trauma Services (CATS) for medical treatment. Their condition was not immediately disclosed.

Eyewitnesses Raise Ventilation Concerns

Several eyewitnesses reportedly pointed to poor ventilation within the restaurant premises, claiming that smoke accumulated rapidly and made escape difficult for occupants.

Authorities have not yet confirmed these claims, and a detailed investigation is expected to determine whether safety violations, inadequate emergency exits, or ventilation issues contributed to the tragedy.

Cause of Fire Yet to Be Determined

Officials have stated that the exact cause of the fire remains unknown. A thorough inquiry will be conducted to establish the origin of the blaze and assess compliance with fire safety regulations.

Investigators are expected to examine the building’s fire safety infrastructure, emergency preparedness measures, and operational permissions.

PM Modi Announces Ex-Gratia Assistance

Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced financial assistance for the victims and their families.

Under the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF):

• Families of those who lost their lives will receive ₹2 lakh each.
• Injured victims will receive ₹50,000 each.

The Prime Minister conveyed his condolences and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the incident.

Delhi Chief Minister Expresses Grief

Rekha Gupta expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and stated that the government is closely monitoring the situation.

In a statement, she said emergency teams from the Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), and CATS Ambulance Services were deployed immediately after receiving information about the fire.

She added that the swift response by emergency agencies helped rescue and evacuate several individuals from the affected building.

Authorities are continuing rescue, recovery, and investigation efforts as the city mourns the victims of the tragic incident.