A tragic fire swept through a three-storey building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area on a busy Monday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of 15 people and injuries to several others. The incident has raised serious questions about building regulations and safety compliance, prompting authorities to investigate how a structure approved solely for residential purposes came to operate as a commercial space.
The building, located on Usha Mehta Marg in north Lucknow, was originally sanctioned as a residential property. Records indicate that its layout was approved for housing use, not for any commercial activity. Despite this, the premises had reportedly been functioning as a commercial complex since around 2014, housing shops and an educational facility, including an animation centre where many students were present at the time of the blaze.
The fire, cause still under determination, trapped dozens of individuals inside the structure. Most of those who perished were on the second floor as flames and smoke rapidly spread. Rescue efforts were hampered by multiple safety shortcomings identified in initial assessments. The building lacked a dedicated emergency exit, and the path to the roof was obstructed, limiting escape routes for occupants.
Compounding the danger, the main entrance relied on an electronic thumb-impression access system. When the fire broke out, this mechanism reportedly failed, with the automatic lock jamming and preventing people from exiting promptly. These factors are believed to have significantly worsened the outcome of the incident.
The property has a documented history spanning several decades. It was originally allotted via lottery in 1980 and changed hands through subsequent sales before reaching its current owners. Official approval for the residential map was granted in August 2014. However, concerns over unauthorised modifications surfaced in 2016, leading to temporary proceedings that were later withdrawn after owners presented their case.
In response to the tragedy, several individuals have been taken into custody, and some officials suspended pending further inquiry. A formal complaint has been registered, and investigations continue to determine the full sequence of events and any regulatory oversights.
This incident highlights the risks associated with repurposing residential buildings for commercial and educational activities without ensuring adequate safety measures. As probes deepen, focus remains on accountability and preventing similar occurrences in the future.