In brief
A blaze in a three‑story commercial building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area killed 15 people, most of whom were employees and trainees of a pet shop and animation centre. Firefighters battled thick smoke that blocked the sole staircase, forcing rescue teams to break a wall to reach the terrace. Authorities cited a lack of emergency exits and biometric access that trapped occupants, and an inquiry has been launched to investigate the incident.
In Lucknow a three‑story commercial building hosted a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation and 3D gaming centre on the upper floors. At about 14:45 local time a fire broke out, unleashing thick smoke that blocked the building’s single staircase and trapped 15 people inside.
Firefighters reached the terrace by entering the neighbouring building and breached a side wall to begin rescue operations. Several victims were saved after climbing down power cables or jumping from windows, but many could not escape in time.
The incident coincided with the build‑up of concerns about fire safety in densely occupied commercial buildings across India. Investigators noted that the property lacked sufficient emergency exits, and a biometric entry system made escape difficult for occupants.
Deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak directed authorities to guard against future incidents and announced that an inquiry would be launched. Police have charged individuals for endangering life and four officials have been suspended.
The blaze comes less than a month after a fatal fire at a bed‑and‑breakfast in Delhi, reminding authorities and the public alike of the urgent need for stricter fire‑safety compliance.
