At least 17 people have died in a fire at a hotel in the Indian capital Delhi, local authorities say.

The fire broke out just before dawn in one of the city's densely populated, central areas.

– We have received confirmation from authorities, the death toll is now up to 17 people, including a child, says Sunil Choudhary of the Delhi Fire Department.

Firefighters gained control of the fire after several hours of fighting and around thirty people were rescued from the flames.

Local media reports that a woman and a child died when they tried to escape the fire by jumping out a window.

Pictures show thick smoke billowing out of the top-floor windows of the three-story building – a popular hotel among budget travelers.

Fires are common in India due to lack of safety measures.

Source: TT