NEW DELHI — A fire broke out at a multi-storey guest house in the Malviya Nagar area of South Delhi on Monday, resulting in multiple reported fatalities and injuries. Authorities have launched a formal investigation into the cause of the incident and possible safety compliance lapses.

According to preliminary information from emergency response teams, the fire started in the morning hours and rapidly spread across several floors of the building, producing heavy smoke that complicated rescue operations. The Delhi Fire Service, along with police and local emergency personnel, responded to the scene and carried out evacuation efforts, rescuing a number of occupants from the premises.

Officials have stated that several people have been injured and are currently receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. The exact number of casualties is yet to be officially confirmed, as verification and identification processes are still underway.

Initial assessments suggest that authorities are examining possible violations of fire safety regulations, including compliance with clearance requirements and occupancy norms. An FIR has been registered, and the property owner has been taken into custody for questioning, according to police sources, pending further investigation.

Senior government officials have expressed condolences to the families affected and assured support measures for the injured and bereaved. Authorities have also indicated that a detailed safety audit of the premises will be conducted as part of the ongoing probe.

Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.