New Delhi, June 3:
At least 21 people were killed after a massive fire broke out at the Lemon Green Restaurant in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on Wednesday, triggering a tragic rescue operation in the heart of the capital’s bustling commercial area.
The fire reportedly started in the lower floors of the restaurant building and spread rapidly, engulfing multiple sections before emergency teams could bring it under control. Thick smoke and narrow exits are believed to have trapped several customers and staff members inside, leaving little time for evacuation.
Firefighters rushed multiple tenders to the spot and carried out intense rescue operations, pulling out some survivors from the building. However, many were already trapped in the upper and basement sections as the flames spread quickly through the structure.
Officials confirmed that around 21 people have died so far, while several others sustained serious injuries and have been admitted to nearby hospitals. The toll may rise as search and cooling operations continue.
Preliminary observations suggest possible lapses in fire safety compliance, though the exact cause of the blaze is yet to be determined. Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into how the fire escalated so quickly in a densely packed commercial establishment.
The incident has once again raised urgent questions about fire preparedness and enforcement of safety norms in high-occupancy buildings across Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the Malviya Nagar fire tragedy, calling the “loss of lives due to a fire incident in Malviya Nagar, Delhi” tragic. He conveyed condolences to bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. Modi said authorities are providing “all possible assistance” to those affected.
He also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF for the families of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
Expressing grief over the Malviya Nagar fire tragedy, the Delhi government said it was “deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives” and extended condolences to bereaved families. It noted that emergency agencies launched swift rescue and relief operations, helping evacuate several people.
The government said it is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to providing “every possible support” to affected families.
“My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and for strength & courage to all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.
Immediately upon receiving information about the incident, teams of Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, DDMA, CATS Ambulance Services and other emergency response agencies were mobilised and launched rescue and relief operations. Their swift response helped in rescuing & evacuating several persons from the affected premises,” the CM wrote on X.