New Delhi
The Delhi government on Thursday announced financial assistance for those affected by the devastating fire at a bed-and-breakfast facility in Malviya Nagar, which claimed 21 lives and left 25 others injured.
The announcement came after Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited injured victims undergoing treatment at a private hospital in south Delhi.
According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the families of those who lost their lives in the tragedy will receive an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh each. Victims who sustained serious injuries will be provided financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh.
The fire broke out on Wednesday morning at a guest accommodation facility in Malviya Nagar, resulting in one of the deadliest fire incidents in the national capital in recent years. Several foreign nationals were among those killed and injured.
During her visit to Max Hospital in Saket, Gupta met injured patients and their family members, reviewed the medical care being provided and instructed officials to ensure that all necessary support and treatment are extended without delay.
BJP MLA from Malviya Nagar, Satish Upadhyay, who accompanied the chief minister, said the condition of the injured patients had shown significant improvement over the past day.
He noted that 17 injured individuals were admitted to the hospital, including seven who were on ventilator support. According to him, all patients are receiving appropriate medical attention and their health condition is steadily improving.
In a statement, the CMO said the government is coordinating with hospital authorities to ensure that treatment expenses do not become a burden on the victims and their families. Every effort is being made to provide the best possible medical care to those affected.
The government also said arrangements are being made to transport the bodies of the deceased to their native places, ensuring support to bereaved families during this difficult period.
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Officials reiterated that relief, rehabilitation and medical assistance remain the government's immediate priorities in the aftermath of the tragedy.