A major fire occurred at a hotel restaurant in New Delhi, India, claiming at least 21 lives. According to local media, among the deceased are foreign nationals who came to the country for treatment. During the fire, some guests jumped from windows in panic, trying to escape the flames.
At least 21 people have died in a devastating fire at a hotel restaurant in the Indian capital, New Delhi. According to Indian media, many of the victims are foreigners.
Police warn that the death toll may rise. At the time of the blaze, many guests were asleep, reports NOS.
The hotel with the restaurant is located near a major hospital. The Indian Express reports that many citizens from African and Asian countries were staying at the hotel for medical treatment. India is considered one of the popular destinations for medical tourism due to relatively affordable prices for medical services and the high qualifications of doctors.
According to local police, rescuers managed to evacuate more than 40 people. Most of the injured were taken to nearby hospitals.
People Jumped from Windows
Eyewitnesses reported that during the fire, some guests jumped from the building's windows in panic. Residents of nearby houses brought mattresses from a nearby store to the street to soften the fall.
Several people were injured. For instance, a woman who jumped from the third floor with a child broke her leg.
The Cause of the Fire is Still Unknown
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. According to police representatives, a thorough investigation will be required to clarify the circumstances. Forensic experts and investigators are already working at the scene of the tragedy.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident a tragedy and promised to provide financial assistance to the families of the deceased and the injured.
Fatal fires occur regularly in India. For example, at the end of last year, a fire in a popular nightclub in Goa resulted in the deaths of at least 25 people.