Indian authorities have launched an investigation after a devastating fire tore through a commercial building in the northern city of Lucknow, killing at least 15 people and injuring several others.
The blaze broke out on Monday afternoon in the densely populated Aliganj area, trapping dozens of people inside a three-storey building that housed a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation and 3D gaming centre on the upper floors.
Officials said the building lacked adequate emergency exits, and the only staircase was quickly engulfed by flames and thick smoke, cutting off escape routes for those inside.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as people desperately tried to save themselves. Some climbed down power cables, while others jumped from windows as smoke filled the building. Residents nearby attempted to help by breaking windows to create escape routes for those trapped inside.
Firefighters reached the rooftop through a neighbouring building and broke through a side wall to rescue victims. However, many people, including trainees and employees working in the animation centre, were unable to escape.
Families of the victims recounted heartbreaking final conversations with loved ones trapped in the fire. Several victims reportedly called relatives pleading for help as the smoke spread through the building.
Authorities are also investigating claims that a biometric access system inside the premises may have complicated evacuation efforts during the emergency.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak confirmed that an official inquiry had been ordered and pledged measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Police have filed charges related to acts endangering life and have arrested four people in connection with the incident. Four public officials have also been suspended as investigations continue.
The disaster has once again raised serious concerns about fire safety standards in India, where a series of deadly fires in commercial and residential buildings in recent months have exposed widespread violations of safety regulations.
The Lucknow tragedy comes less than a month after another fatal fire at a guesthouse in New Delhi claimed several lives, renewing calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety laws across the country.
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