Delhi Scraps B&B Policy Amidst Hotel Fire Tragedy
Delhi has withdrawn its Bed and Breakfast policy following a deadly hotel fire in Malviya Nagar area. The move aims to improve safety amid allegations that the establishment operated beyond permitted limits.
Highlights
- •Bed and Breakfast withdrawal
- •Malviya Nagar Fire Tragedy
- •Delhi government's action plan
- •Urban planning expert concerns
New Delhi, India – In a move aimed at strengthening safety measures, the Delhi government has officially announced the termination of its popular Bed and Breakfast (B&B) policy. This decision comes in the wake of a deadly fire that swept through the Flourish Stay B&B in Malviya Nagar, south Delhi, resulting in 21 fatalities and numerous injuries.
Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra stated, 'We are going to officially withdraw the Bed and Breakfast scheme. All establishments licensed under it will be inspected thoroughly.' He warned that 'Action would be taken against operators found violating the terms of their licence. If any establishment registered under the scheme is found running more than six rooms, its license will be canceled.'
Flourish Stay Violated Licensing Terms
The hotel in question operated far beyond permissible limits, according to investigators. The Flourish Stay was licensed for 6 rooms in the Silver category and had a validity until 2027. However, it is alleged that the establishment ran approximately 25 rooms, including some in the basement—which is a significant violation of safety norms.
Mishra emphasized the role of the tourism department primarily involves granting and renewing licenses while verifying compliance during inspections. He stated, 'Owners are required to submit guest records to the local police station every 15 days. The tourism department has no say in day-to-day operations.'
Previous Policy Initiatives
The decision to withdraw the policy comes despite recent efforts by the tourism department to revamp the scheme. Last month, a draft proposal was released that introduced two categories—Gold and Silver—based on factors such as room size, furnishings, sanitation standards, guest amenities, and safety arrangements.
As of 2023, over 2,200 rooms in more than 432 properties were registered under Delhi's B&B scheme. Urban planning expert Jagdish Mamgain raised concerns about enforcement and regulatory oversight, noting a series of fatal incidents in recent months that highlight systemic issues. He stated, 'Delhi has witnessed numerous deaths due to fire incidents and building collapses over the last year-and-a-half, which reflect gaps in monitoring and enforcement.'
Mamgain added, 'The discussion should not be limited to whether establishments had permission for six rooms or more; instead, we must address how they were operating with valid licenses when commercial activities were allegedly conducted from basements, a clear violation of norms.'
