New Delhi, June 3: Investigators probing the deadly fire at Lemon Green Hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area are now examining alleged violations related to the property’s approved room capacity, as the death toll in the tragedy has risen to 21.
The devastating fire, which engulfed the hotel and triggered a massive rescue operation, left 21 people dead and more than 40 others injured or rescued. Several victims reportedly suffered severe burn injuries, while others succumbed to smoke inhalation.
A key aspect of the investigation now centres on reports that the hotel was operating significantly more rooms than those allegedly permitted under its original licence.
According to information emerging from the ongoing probe, the property had reportedly been granted permission under the Bed and Breakfast (B&B) scheme to operate six rooms. However, authorities are examining claims that as many as 25 rooms were being operated from the premises, including rooms allegedly developed in additional portions of the building.
Investigators are expected to verify whether the hotel’s operational capacity exceeded approved limits and whether any unauthorized structural modifications were carried out over time.
Officials are also examining whether the building’s layout, occupancy levels and emergency evacuation provisions complied with applicable safety regulations.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as flames and thick smoke rapidly spread through the structure. Several occupants were forced to jump from upper floors to escape the blaze, while local residents placed mattresses outside the building to help cushion those attempting to flee.
Firefighters rescued more than 40 people from the building and surrounding areas during the operation. The rescue mission was carried out with the assistance of multiple fire tenders and emergency response teams.
Authorities said the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, although preliminary assessments suggest a possible electrical short circuit. A detailed forensic examination is underway.
The incident has reignited concerns about enforcement of licensing conditions, building regulations and fire safety norms in commercial establishments across the national capital.
Senior officials from Delhi Police, the Delhi Fire Service and other agencies are investigating whether any lapses in compliance, inspections or enforcement contributed to the scale of the tragedy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of those killed, while the injured will receive ₹50,000 each.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to determine whether violations of approved building usage, occupancy limits or safety norms played a role in one of Delhi’s deadliest hotel fire incidents in recent years.
