A devastating fire tore through a three-storey commercial building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area on Monday, killing at least 15 people and triggering an extensive rescue operation involving multiple emergency agencies. The tragedy unfolded in the Purania locality on Usha Mehta Marg, where thick smoke and flames rapidly engulfed the structure, causing panic among those trapped inside.

According to officials, the building housed a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation and gaming training centre on the upper floors. Many of the victims were reportedly young students and trainees who were inside the premises when the fire broke out.

Rescue Teams Conducted Intensive Search

Firefighters, police personnel, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Civil Defence teams rushed to the scene and conducted a room-by-room search operation. Rescue workers combed through smoke-filled corridors, classrooms, and washrooms amid fears that several people remained trapped.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as smoke quickly spread throughout the building. Several students reportedly jumped from upper floors in desperate attempts to escape. Emergency medical teams and ambulances were stationed nearby to provide immediate treatment to the injured.

Family members gathered outside the building anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. One resident recounted seeing students rescued from the structure, while others remained unaccounted for during the early stages of the operation.

Prime Minister Announces Financial Assistance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced ex-gratia compensation from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. The families of those who died will receive ₹2 lakh each, while injured victims will be provided ₹50,000 in assistance.

The Prime Minister conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the incident.

Chief Minister Orders Detailed Investigation

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath cut short an official programme after learning about the tragedy and returned to Lucknow. He directed senior officials, including the Director General of Police and the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), to visit the site and submit a detailed report.

The Chief Minister assured that the circumstances leading to the fire would be thoroughly investigated and that those found responsible would face strict action. He also instructed authorities to provide all possible assistance to affected families and ensure proper medical care for survivors.

Cause of Fire Yet to Be Determined

The fire department received information about the blaze around 3 pm and deployed multiple fire tenders, including specialised equipment, to bring the flames under control. While the fire has been extinguished, the exact cause remains under investigation.

Officials will conduct a detailed inspection once cooling operations are completed. The incident has emerged as one of the deadliest fire tragedies in Lucknow in recent years, raising fresh concerns about fire safety standards in commercial establishments.

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