NEW DELHI: Several safety failures have come to light during the investigation into the fire at a hotel in Delhi's Malviya Nagar that claimed 21 lives. Preliminary findings indicate that most victims died from suffocation and smoke inhalation rather than burn injuries, according to news agency ANI.
Recovery of Personal Belongings
During a detailed search of the building, police recovered approximately 50 to 60 mobile phones and nearly 30 passports from various rooms. The rooms remained extremely hot even after the fire was extinguished, underscoring the intensity of the blaze and the extent to which heat and smoke had spread throughout the structure.
Identification of Victims
So far, investigators have identified five of the deceased, while efforts continue to establish the identities of the remaining victims. Post-mortem examinations are being conducted in all cases. According to police, most of the bodies showed limited burn injuries, with initial findings indicating that smoke inhalation and suffocation were the primary causes of death.
Foreign Nationals and Medical Visas
Investigators found that many of the foreign nationals staying at the guest house had traveled to India on medical visas. The establishment hosted around 80 foreign guests every month. As required, details of foreign visitors were submitted to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) through C-Forms, and the information was also reflected in Delhi Police records, according to ANI.
Safety Deficiencies Uncovered
The probe has uncovered several shortcomings in the building's safety arrangements. Officials found that all windows and glass panels were sealed, preventing smoke from escaping during the fire. Investigators also discovered that the entrance to the basement was locked. It reportedly took rescuers about 10 minutes to gain access, as the door was locked from inside. Six to seven people were later rescued from the basement.
Rescue teams also encountered an iron mesh barrier, about two-and-a-half feet high, along the basement access route. Officials said it took nearly 10 minutes to cut through the obstruction before evacuation efforts could continue. The building lacked proper ventilation and did not have an emergency exit. These deficiencies allowed smoke to spread quickly through the structure, trapping occupants and making rescue operations more difficult, according to ANI.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, with a focus on holding accountable those responsible for the safety lapses that led to the tragic loss of life.
