A devastating fire at Lemon Green Restaurant in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar claimed at least 21 lives on Wednesday, triggering a large-scale rescue operation by the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) and other emergency agencies.
Fire Breaks Out at Restaurant
The blaze erupted during the morning hours, trapping several people inside the restaurant building. Firefighters rushed to the scene and launched immediate rescue efforts to evacuate those caught in the fire.
According to officials, the Delhi Fire Services received an emergency call and promptly deployed multiple firefighting units, including two water tenders, two water bowsers, a quick response vehicle, and additional emergency equipment.
Major Rescue Operation Launched
Rescue teams worked for several hours to bring the situation under control and search for people trapped inside the building. During the operation, firefighters entered the restaurant’s basement and rescued several individuals who were unable to escape on their own.
Earlier reports stated that 11 people had been rescued and shifted to nearby hospitals by Centralised Accident and Trauma Services (CATS) ambulances. However, Delhi Police later confirmed that the death toll had risen to at least 21.
Divisional Officer Ravinder from the Nehru Place fire station supervised the rescue operations at the site.
Rekha Gupta Expresses Grief
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said that emergency teams from the Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), and CATS Ambulance Services were mobilised immediately after the incident was reported.
She noted that the swift response of the rescue teams helped evacuate several people from the affected premises and assured that the government was closely monitoring the situation.
“In this hour of grief Delhi Govt. stands firmly with the affected families. We remain committed to providing every possible support to those impacted by this tragedy,” she said.
Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the devastating fire incident in Malviya Nagar.
— Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) June 3, 2026
My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and for strength & courage to all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.…
Investigation Underway
Authorities are continuing search and rescue operations while assessing the extent of the damage caused by the fire.
Officials said the exact number of people present inside the restaurant at the time of the incident is yet to be determined. The cause of the fire also remains unknown.
Police and fire department officials have launched an investigation to determine how the blaze started and whether any fire safety violations or negligence contributed to the tragedy.
Officials Monitor Situation
“A fire broke out at a restaurant in Malviya Nagar. Delhi Fire Services received a call and immediately dispatched firefighting units to the scene. Rescue operations were carried out and the injured were shifted to hospitals,” an official said.
Authorities have assured that a thorough inquiry will be conducted and all necessary assistance will be provided to the victims and their families.