In brief
On Monday, a fire broke out in Lucknow, a bustling city in northern India, claiming the lives of at least 15 people. The inferno engulfed a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation centre on the upper levels, leaving victims trapped as smoke spread. Rescue teams breached walls and accessed the terrace to conduct limited evacuations, while witnesses reported chaotic scenes of people climbing cables and leaping from windows. Authorities confirmed that the building lacked adequate emergency exits and that biometric entry systems hindered escape. A formal inquiry has been ordered by the deputy chief minister, and police are investigating possible violations of fire safety regulations.
Inquiry Ordered After Deadly Building Fire in Lucknow Claims 15 Lives
On Monday, a massive blaze erupted in a three‑floor commercial building in the densely populated Aliganj area of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, killing at least 15 people and leaving dozens injured.
The building housed a pet shop on the ground level and a two‑floor animation and 3D gaming centre above it. A single staircase, the building’s only exit, was engulfed by flame and smoke, trapping occupants and preventing them from leaving.
Firefighters reached the terrace via a neighbouring building and breached a side wall to begin rescue operations, but many victims were unable to escape. Witnesses reported frantic scenes: people climbing down power cables, jumping from windows, and calling for help through shattered glass.
Official investigators noted that a biometric entry system restricted access to parts of the premises, further hampering evacuation. Police have filed charges under acts causing or endangering life and arrested four individuals linked to the fire; four public officials were also suspended.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak confirmed that an inquiry has been launched, stating that authorities are to guarantee such incidents do not recur. The tragedy comes less than a month after a major blaze at a bed‑and‑breakfast in Delhi.
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