The Uttar Pradesh government has prohibited the operation of coaching centres and all other commercial activities from basements across the state following the deadly fire in Lucknow’s Aliganj area that claimed at least 15 lives.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to strictly enforce the ban and ensure compliance with fire safety and disaster management regulations. The move comes amid growing concerns over building safety violations and the misuse of basements in commercial establishments.

Chief Minister Orders Strict Enforcement

Issuing a strong warning against violations, Adityanath said basements must not be used for coaching centres or any form of commercial activity under any circumstances.

He instructed all concerned departments to identify buildings where basements are being used in violation of regulations and take immediate corrective measures. Officials found negligent in enforcing safety norms will also face action.

The state government has emphasised that public safety will take precedence over commercial considerations and that strict compliance with building and fire safety regulations will be mandatory.

Aliganj Fire Triggers Investigation

The decision follows the devastating fire at a commercial complex in Lucknow’s Aliganj locality, which is now under investigation for alleged violations of approved building plans and safety norms.

Authorities are examining whether the structure had been modified illegally and whether deviations from sanctioned plans contributed to the scale of the tragedy.

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has launched an enforcement drive targeting the building and other nearby structures suspected of violating planning regulations.

According to officials, the property had received approval as a residential building in 2014 but was later converted into a commercial complex without obtaining the necessary permissions.

Preliminary findings indicate that unauthorised alterations and lapses in fire safety compliance may have intensified the impact of the blaze.

Notices Issued, Wider Inspection Drive Begins

The LDA has served notices to the building owners and granted them 15 days to submit their response to the allegations.

Authorities have warned that if the explanations are found unsatisfactory, demolition proceedings could be initiated under the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act.

Investigators are also assessing whether the use of basements in violation of regulations played a role in the incident.

Meanwhile, the state administration has expanded inspections beyond Lucknow, focusing on commercial establishments operating in residential properties and on basement units being used illegally.

Officials said a comprehensive review of similar buildings is underway across the state. Any structure found violating building regulations or fire safety standards will face legal action as authorities continue their investigation into the Aliganj tragedy.

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