Last Updated:
A massive blaze erupted at a three-storey building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area, resulting in 15 deaths and injuries to many. An investigation is underway into the matter
Charred remains of the site of a fire at a coaching centre, in Lucknow. (Source: PTI)
A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in the case of a massive fire that swept through a commercial building in the Aliganj area of Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow on Monday, killing 15 people and injuring several.
According to a copy of the FIR, accessed by CNN-News18, there was only one exit and entry point in the building, which caused several people to get trapped inside the facility, and many to jump from the upper floors in a bid to escape.
There was no emergency evacuation door inside the building, which is a major safety hazard and accounts for a serious violation of the law. There was no proper ventilation, which resulted in multiple deaths due to suffocation, the FIR said.
The building –– which housed an animation training institute –– lacked adequate fire fighting equipment, which amounts to a serious safety lapse on part of the building authority. The electrical systems were also found to be in a haphazard manner, according to the FIR.
‘Looking Into Possible Angles’
A two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) –– which was set up to investigate the incident –– told CNN-News18 that it was examining all possible angles and that a detailed report would be shared soon.
The team, which was present at the incident spot, said: “We will look into all the possible angles and a report with all the details will be submitted within the estimated period as directed by the Chief Minister”.
Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Praveen Kumar told CNN-News18 that the investigation was at its initial stage and all angles were being taken into account.
“We’re looking into all possible angles. The probe is at its initial stage and we will share soon as something significant is found”, he said.
On being asked if the building was illegally constructed, ADG Kumar said the matter was still under scanner, adding the police sought details from the relevant departments to verify whether the building had been issued a fire No Objection Certificate (NOC).
About The Incident
A massive blaze erupted at a three-storey building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area, resulting in 15 deaths –– mostly students –– and injuries to many. Chaotic scenes unfolded at the site as several students attempted to jump off upper floors in a bid to escape.
The building housed an animation centre and a pet shop, with most of the victims reported to be young students. Authorities and locals were also seen rushing to rescue animals as the blaze raged for over an hour.
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Read More
Source link
[ad_3]
