ISLAMABAD: Preliminary findings of investigations into the deadly fire that killed around two dozen people in a Delhi hotel indicated that the building was operating well beyond its approved capacity, with authorities turning a blind eye to the irregularity, reported Indian media.
Officials investigating the incident told the media that the five-storey property in Hauz Rani was registered under Delhi's Bed & Breakfast (B&B) scheme and approved for only six rooms. However, initial findings suggest the establishment was allegedly operating nearly 25 rooms at the time of the fire.
Investigators are now examining how such a significant expansion went undetected and whether the premises had effectively transformed from a residential home-stay into a commercial lodging facility while retaining its B&B registration.
Delayed response
Complaints regarding delayed responses from the fire brigade and other rescue services also came to light.
In a video posted by the President of the Aam Admi Party, Delhi Saurabh Bharadwaj, on X, people could be heard saying that the fire brigade is very late, has not arrived."
BJP chief minister is yet to visit
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has come under criticism from the Opposition over her absence from the site of the devastating hotel fire.
The chief minister, however, ordered an inquiry into the incident and promised strict action against those responsible.
While some opposition party leaders visited the site, Chief Minister Gupta remained away from the location.
Her absence, however, drew criticism from Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)'s Delhi unit Chief Saurabh Bharadwaj.
In a post on social media platform X, Bharadwaj wrote: " Twenty-one innocent lives brutally snatched away in the Malviya Nagar fire, while eyewitnesses again accuse the Delhi Government for the late response of fire brigades. Delhi is shattered, furious, and in tears. Yet CM Rekha Gupta hasn't shown her face at the spot, hasn't met a single grieving family, and offers only cosmetic statements from her ivory tower..."
Questions Over Compliance Monitoring
According to an NDTV report, the incident has raised serious concerns about how authorities monitor compliance after granting approvals.
Officials familiar with the process acknowledged that inspections are typically conducted during registration, while follow-up checks are limited and often depend on complaints being filed.
The apparent violation has intensified criticism of enforcement agencies and prompted questions about the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms.
Investigators are also looking into reports that rooms at the property were advertised on online booking platforms despite exceeding approved limits.
Media outlet The Page Today reported, "The blaze originated in an unauthorised hotel operating in the basement. BSES promptly cut power supply, aiding containment. Local MLA expressed grief and assured strict investigation and action against violations.
B&B Scheme Faces Fresh Questions
The B&B framework was introduced to promote affordable accommodation in residential neighbourhoods. Under the rules, a property can operate a maximum of six double-bedrooms and must comply with fire safety, ventilation and infrastructure requirements.
The Hauz Rani case has renewed concerns that some establishments may be functioning more like commercial hotels without being subjected to the same level of regulatory scrutiny.
Citywide Crackdown Ordered
In response to the tragedy, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu ordered a month-long citywide inspection drive targeting hotels, lodges, nursing homes, coaching centres, restaurants and other commercial establishments.
Joint teams comprising district officials, police, municipal authorities and fire service personnel will conduct inspections to verify fire safety compliance, emergency exits, water storage facilities and firefighting equipment.
Authorities have warned that establishments found violating safety norms or operating beyond sanctioned capacities could face closure, sealing and legal action.
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