New delhi: A fire at a hotel in southern New Delhi, India, early this morning local time has killed at least 21 people, 17 of whom were foreigners from various African and South Asian countries.

According to Thai News Agency, a fire broke out this morning local time at a five-story bed and breakfast hotel, with a restaurant on the basement level, in the Malviya Nagar neighborhood. This area is densely populated with narrow alleys. Forty-seven people were staying at the hotel at the time of the fire. The New Delhi fire department dispatched more than 10 fire trucks and emergency rescue vehicles to quickly control the situation.

At least 21 people have been confirmed dead, 17 of whom were foreigners from various African and South Asian countries. They had traveled to India for medical treatment or to care for sick relatives at a nearby private hospital. More than 40 people were rescued, eight of whom are in critical condition. It took several hours to bring the fire under control. Reports indicate that smoke filled the corridors, and the building had only one entrance/exit, lacking standard fire escapes. As a result, some occupants jumped from second and third-floor windows in an attempt to escape.

Local officials stated that initial investigations suggest the fire likely started in the restaurant on the ground floor before rapidly spreading and sending thick black smoke billowing upwards, catching occupants off guard. Police have charged the business owner with intent to kill (but not intentional), while the hotel owner fled the scene during the ensuing chaos.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his condolences and announced compensation of 200,000 rupees (approximately 87,000 baht) per family of the deceased and 50,000 rupees (approximately 22,000 baht) per injured person.