The deeply disturbing answer is that in majority of cases, the premises either lacked suitable escape route tools or the exits became inaccessible in the critical moments due to wilful negligence or irresponsible neglect. Jammed doors, obstructed passageways, no emergency lighting or visible escape assisting signages, no fire fighting equipment available to combat the flames and similar reasons are common causes in fire-related deaths or injuries. In most cases, mandatory emergency escape and protection gear are either absent or non-functional.

According to data from the Delhi Government and the Delhi Fire Service (DFS), more than 500 people lost their lives in fire-related incidents between 2019 and March 21, 2026. Thousands more sustained injuries during the same period.

According to the DFS, in 2019-20, a total of 95 deaths were recorded, in 2020-21, a total of 41 deaths were recorded, in 2021-22, a total of 55 deaths were recorded, in 2022-23, a total of 95 deaths were recorded, in 2023-24 a total of 77 deaths were recorded, in 2024-25, a total of 90 deaths were recorded, and in 2025-26 (till March 210), a total of 65 deaths were recorded.

The highest number of fatalities in a single year was recorded in 2019-20, largely due to the tragic Anaj Mandi fire, which alone claimed 44 lives. In addition, fire incidents between 2019 and 2025 resulted in injuries to at least 4,403 people. The growing frequency of fire-related emergencies is also reflected in the increasing number of calls received by the Delhi Fire Service. Official records show that DFS received 17,231 calls in 2019-20 and 20,379 calls in 2025-26.