How tech trapped guests in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar hotel after power cut disabled door control button

NEW DELHI: A deadly fire at Flourish Stay Bed & Breakfast in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area has raised questions over emergency exits, electronic locking systems and multiple safety violations, after 21 people were killed and 20 others injured in the blaze on Wednesday.

Residents said the hotel’s electronic systems stopped working once power was cut during the fire, allegedly leaving guests trapped inside rooms fitted with key-card operated locks.

“The moment the electricity went out, the main gate became completely jammed. The hotel staff used a control button to operate the gate, but because of the fire and power failure, it stopped functioning and people got trapped inside,” said Mohit, a resident.

Locals added that the property had an electronically operated main gate which was routinely locked at night with an additional iron grille gate placed outside after 11 pm. They said rescue teams had to break through these barriers to reach those trapped inside.

The building reportedly had only one entry and exit point, with no separate external fire escape. When the fire broke out in the basement, smoke quickly spread through the staircase, cutting off the only evacuation route for guests on upper floors.

Residents also pointed to fully sealed windows and a tightly enclosed façade, which they said prevented ventilation and worsened smoke build-up.

Preliminary findings have flagged multiple violations. The B&B was permitted to operate with six rooms but had expanded to 25 rooms. Officials also found no smoke detectors, automated fire alarms, sprinkler systems or fire no-objection certificate.

Investigators suspect LPG cylinders and other combustible material stored in the basement may have accelerated the spread of the fire. The ground floor housed a restaurant, while the kitchen was reportedly functioning from the basement.

The blaze broke out at the property, which was hosting around 50 guests at the time, and spread to a neighbouring inn. At least nine of the identified victims were foreign nationals who had come to India for medical treatment.

Lavkesh Bajaj, the owner of the facility, has been arrested. Police have registered a case of culpable homicide.

Officials said many guests were forced to jump from upper floors to escape, while locals helped by bringing mattresses and blankets to cushion their fall. Firefighters, police and residents together rescued around 50 people during the operation.