15 Killed in Lucknow Fire as probe reveals building misuse and safety lapses

At least 15 people were killed in a devastating fire at a three-storey building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area, which investigators have now found was originally approved as a residential structure but was being used for commercial activities, including coaching classes and training centres.

Preliminary findings suggest that serious safety violations worsened the tragedy, with reports indicating the building had no proper emergency exit and only a single staircase, making escape nearly impossible once the fire spread rapidly through the structure.

Officials said the blaze broke out on Monday afternoon and quickly engulfed the building, trapping students and staff inside. Many victims were unable to escape as thick smoke filled the premises, while rescue teams struggled to reach those inside due to the intensity of the fire.

Following the incident, authorities have launched multiple investigations, sealed the building, and registered a case against several accused persons. Arrests have also been made, while departmental action has been taken against officials suspected of negligence.

The incident has triggered renewed scrutiny over urban building regulation enforcement in Lucknow, with questions being raised over how an illegally converted commercial setup operated in a residentially approved structure for years.