In brief
A blaze broke out Monday in a multi‑story commercial building in Lucknow, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens. The structure housed a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation centre on the upper levels, but a single blocked staircase trapped occupants, forcing some to jump from windows or climb down power cables. Authorities arrested four individuals and suspended four officials, while Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak announced an inquiry to prevent future incidents. The tragedy follows a spate of recent building fires across India, spotlighting lax fire‑safety compliance in densely populated commercial districts.
A blaze broke out Monday night in a three‑floor commercial building in Lucknow’s densely populated Aliganj area, killing 15 people and injuring dozens more. The structure housed a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation and 3D gaming centre on the upper levels.
Witnesses described panicked scenes as occupants tried to escape through the building’s sole staircase, which was engulfed in flames and smoke. Some people climbed down power cables or jumped from windows; others called for help from inside. The only available exit was blocked, forcing emergency responders to breach a side wall and approach from a neighboring building.
Authorities have arrested four individuals and suspended four public officials in connection with the fire, while police have filed charges for acts causing or endangering life. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak announced an inquiry to investigate the fire’s cause, the absence of emergency exits, and the role of a biometric entry system that may have hindered evacuation.
The tragedy comes less than a month after a fatal blaze at a bed‑and‑breakfast in Delhi, adding to growing concerns over fire safety violations in India’s commercial buildings.
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