At least 14 people were killed and several others injured after a massive fire broke out at a coaching centre building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area on Monday, triggering panic among students and staff.
The blaze reportedly erupted in the afternoon and quickly engulfed parts of the multi-storey structure, filling classrooms and corridors with thick smoke. As the fire spread rapidly, several students were seen jumping from windows and balconies in desperate attempts to escape.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as screams for help echoed from inside the building. Some students managed to climb out through windows, while others waited for rescue teams to reach them. Videos circulating on social media showed students leaping from the first floor as onlookers and local residents rushed to help.
Firefighters, police personnel and emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the site. Multiple fire tenders battled the flames for hours while rescue operations continued inside the smoke-filled building. Authorities evacuated nearby structures as a precaution and shifted the injured to hospitals for treatment.
Officials later confirmed that 14 people had lost their lives in the tragedy. Several others sustained injuries, with some reported to be in critical condition. The identities of some victims were still being verified as rescue and recovery efforts progressed.
Preliminary reports suggested that an electrical short circuit may have sparked the fire, although authorities said the exact cause would be determined after a detailed investigation. Fire safety and forensic teams have begun examining the building and assessing whether safety norms were followed.
Political leaders expressed condolences to the families of the victims. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his grief and announced ex gratia assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. The next of kin of each deceased will receive ₹2 lakh, while those injured will be given ₹50,000.
The administration has ordered an inquiry into the incident and assured strict action if any negligence is found.
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