New Delhi: At least 12 people are feared dead after a massive fire broke out at a coaching centre-cum-library in Lucknow’s Aliganj area on Monday, triggering
panic and a large-scale rescue operation. Most of the deceased are reported to be students.
The coaching institute was operating on the upper floor of a commercial building in the Purnia locality. As thick smoke and flames rapidly engulfed the structure, several students desperately tried to escape. Some reportedly jumped from the first floor to save themselves, while others locked themselves inside bathrooms as the fire spread through the building.
Multiple fire tenders were rushed to the spot after authorities received information about the blaze. Firefighters launched an intensive operation to control the fire and evacuate those trapped inside. Officials said several fire brigade vehicles were engaged in dousing the flames, but the intensity of the fire posed major challenges for rescue teams.
“It is being said that 10-12 people are trapped inside. We have not been able to enter the building as the fire is massive,” a fire department official said during the rescue operation.
Rescue teams are now breaking through the rear wall of the building to recover and bring out bodies and search for any remaining survivors trapped inside.
Several injured victims were rushed to the Trauma Centre of King George’s Medical University (KGMU) for treatment. Four injured persons are currently undergoing treatment under the close supervision of doctors. The KGMU administration has made special arrangements for medical care, and the condition of the injured is being continuously monitored by medical teams.
Taking cognizance of the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed senior officials to immediately reach the spot and oversee rescue and relief measures. He instructed authorities to expedite rescue operations, ensure proper medical treatment for the injured and maintain vigilance at every level.
Expressing grief over the tragedy while addressing a programme in Aligarh, the Chief Minister said he would immediately leave for Lucknow in view of the seriousness of the incident. Adityanath, who was scheduled to stay overnight in Aligarh, cancelled his plans and said he would meet the families of those who lost their lives and personally convey his condolences.
The chief minister also wished a speedy recovery to those injured and ordered continuous monitoring of rescue, relief and medical response efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed anguish over the loss of lives in the fire tragedy and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He said rescue operations were underway and authorities were providing all possible assistance. The Prime Minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased, while injured persons would receive financial assistance of Rs 50,000.
