Authorities in Indian capital are initiating a massive inspection of properties following a fatal hotel fire in Malviya Nagar that resulted in 21 fatalities on Wednesday.
Among the deceased were 12 foreign nationals, with reports identifying citizens from Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Liberia, reports Reuters.
The hotel where the blaze occurred – the city’s deadliest since 2022 – was reportedly a frequent choice for patients and their families visiting a nearby hospital.
The chief minister’s office (CMO) announced via a post on X late Wednesday that a city-wide crackdown will target guest houses and other establishments flouting fire safety regulations and building by-laws.
The government warned that non-compliant premises will be sealed, and those found responsible will face prosecution.
Police have already arrested the building’s owner and initiated a criminal case in connection with the tragedy.
In the aftermath, India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that the ministry is coordinating with the relevant embassies to provide all necessary assistance to those affected.
