DelhiHotelFire – Delhi Government Moves to End B&B Scheme After Deadly Blaze

DelhiHotelFire – A day after a tragic fire at a lodging facility in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area left 21 people dead, the Delhi government announced plans to discontinue its Bed and Breakfast (B&B) registration scheme and launch a comprehensive inspection of all properties operating under it. The decision comes as investigators continue to uncover serious safety lapses at the establishment where the incident occurred.

Government Orders Statewide Review

Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said authorities will examine every property registered under the B&B framework and take strict action against those violating licence conditions. According to him, establishments found operating beyond the permitted capacity of six rooms will face immediate cancellation of their licences.

The move follows growing concerns about regulatory oversight under the accommodation policy, which was originally introduced ahead of the 2010 Commonwealth Games to encourage budget-friendly lodging options within residential neighbourhoods.

Manager Remains Untraceable

Police officials said Jai Mishra, identified as the manager responsible for handling the property’s day-to-day operations and financial matters, remains missing. Investigators have formed dedicated teams to locate him and gather further details related to the hotel’s functioning.

Authorities stated that, for licensing purposes, Mishra was listed as the owner of the B&B establishment, making him a key figure in the ongoing investigation.

Questions Raised Over Safety Standards

The tragedy has reignited debate over the effectiveness of safety provisions within the B&B policy. Officials familiar with the framework noted that several essential fire-safety requirements were either weak or absent.

According to fire department personnel, earlier provisions requiring owners to live on the premises were eventually removed. Investigators believe the absence of a resident owner may have contributed to poor oversight at the property involved in the incident.

Officials also pointed out that the policy did not make fire extinguishers or other critical fire-prevention equipment compulsory. Instead, the installation of smoke detectors and heat sensors was only recommended, leaving the final decision to individual operators.

Licence Conditions Allegedly Ignored

Investigators revealed that the establishment, operating under the name Flourish Stay, had received a silver-category licence in 2024 for six guest rooms, with approval valid until 2027. However, inspections after the fire reportedly found that the property was functioning far beyond the authorised limit.

Authorities discovered that around 25 rooms were being used, including accommodations set up in the basement. Investigators further found that the building lacked mandatory fire-safety approval and had never obtained a sanctioned building plan from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.

Locked Exit and In-Room Cooking Equipment Found

One of the most alarming findings involved the building’s rooftop exit, which was reportedly locked when the fire broke out. Investigators believe this may have prevented occupants from accessing a potentially vital escape route during the emergency.

Officials also recovered cooking appliances and utensils from 22 rooms. Items including electric stoves and heating devices indicated that several long-term occupants had been preparing meals inside their rooms, increasing potential fire risks within the building.

Illegal Restaurant Operations Under Investigation

Further inquiries revealed that a small tea-and-snacks outlet permitted under the licence was allegedly being operated as a full-scale restaurant. Investigators found four LPG cylinders on the premises despite the facility reportedly lacking a legally approved gas connection.

Authorities are also attempting to trace restaurant employees who were working at the location before the incident. Their statements are expected to help determine how the restaurant was functioning and whether additional safety violations occurred.

The findings have intensified scrutiny of accommodation and hospitality regulations in the capital, with officials signalling that stricter enforcement measures may follow in the coming weeks.