Inquiry launched after 15 die in Lucknow building blaze
A fire broke out on Monday in a complex in Lucknow’s Aliganj area, killing at least 15 people. The structure housed a pet shop on its ground floor and an animation and 3‑D gaming centre on the two stories above it. Early reports indicated that the building opened onto a single stairwell, which was sealed by the fire, cutting off the only exit for occupants.
Rescue teams reached the building’s terrace via an adjacent property, breached a side wall and began pulling victims to safety. Witnesses described chaos, with people climbing down power cables and leaping from windows, and several bodies were recovered on the street.
The cause of the blaze has not yet been determined. Authorities are investigating possible violations of fire‑safety regulations, including the presence of a biometric entry system that may have hindered evacuation. Four individuals have been arrested and four public officials suspended.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak announced that a formal inquiry has been ordered and that measures will be taken to prevent similar tragedies. The incident follows a series of recent fires in India that exposed gaps in enforcement of safety standards.
The blaze has struck a hard blow to Lucknow’s densely packed commercial districts and highlighted the urgent need for robust fire-safety oversight. The inquiry will probe the circumstances surrounding the fire and the adequacy of the building’s safety features.
