New Delhi, June 3 (IANS): At least 20 people lost their lives and dozens were injured after a massive blaze engulfed the multi-storied Lemon Green Restaurant in Malviya Nagar, Delhi, on Wednesday morning. Officials said 37 people were rescued and taken to hospitals, while search operations are still underway. Witnesses reported that some trapped individuals attempted to jump from upper floors to escape the flames, leaving several critically injured. Senior officials from Delhi Police, Fire Services, and rescue teams rushed to the site, where ten fire tenders were deployed to bring the fire under control. Despite containment, the damage was extensive.
SDM Jitender Kumar, who arrived at the scene, said preliminary findings suggest the fire originated in the basement where the restaurant was operating, though the exact cause remains under investigation. He warned of strict action against those violating safety norms and running operations illegally. Rescue teams continue to search for people possibly trapped on higher floors. The incident comes a day after a suspected LPG cylinder blast led to a building collapse in Mukundpur, injuring ten. Authorities said the Malviya Nagar tragedy highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in commercial establishments.