15 die in building fire in Lucknow; inquiry ordered

By Abhishek Dey | 2 hours ago

A blaze that erupted Monday at a three‑storey commercial building in the Aliganj neighbourhood of Lucknow killed at least 15 people and has prompted the state government to open a formal inquiry into its cause and the building’s safety compliance.

The structure housed a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation and 3D gaming centre on the upper two floors. Witnesses reported people escaping by leaping from windows or climbing down power cables, while firefighters had to breach a side wall to reach the terrace and aid those trapped.

Officials say the building lacked a second exit and that smoke rapidly filled the staircase, sealing the only escape route. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown.

The incident has renewed debate over fire safety in India’s crowded commercial buildings, following several recent deadly blazes that exposed violations of fire regulations.

Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak told reporters: "An inquiry has been initiated. Authorities are directed to ensure that such incidents do not happen again." He added that police have charged four individuals in connection with the fire and are investigating whether the building’s biometric entry system hindered evacuation.

The fire struck at about 14:45 local time (09:15 GMT). Survivors and their families described frantic scenes as trapped occupants called for help from windows and attempted to escape. One victim was reported to have been seriously injured after jumping from the building.

Four public officials were suspended, and further investigations are underway to determine liability.

The Lucknow tragedy comes less than a month after a deadly blaze at a bed‑and‑breakfast in Delhi, underscoring the urgency of stringent enforcement of fire safety measures across the nation.