14 dead in massive fire at Lucknow coaching centre, rescue ops underway
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Lucknow: At least 14 people were killed after a massive fire broke out at a three-storey building housing a coaching centre in the Purania area of Aliganj, Lucknow, on Monday, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who was on a visit to Aligarh, cut short his programme and returned to Lucknow following the incident. He expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
In a post on X, Deputy Chief Minister Pathak said, "We have received the extremely distressing news of a massive fire breaking out at a coaching centre located in Purania (Sector D), Lucknow. The injured are being admitted to hospitals for treatment. Necessary instructions have been issued to officials for the proper treatment of the injured and for every possible assistance."
"I am personally heading to the incident site. A team of specialist doctors, along with six ambulances, is present at the spot. I pray to God that all the injured recover soon," he added.
The deceased are believed to be between 20 and 24 years of age. The incident created panic in the area, with fears that the death toll could rise further.
The fire reportedly started inside the coaching centre operating in the building and quickly spread, filling the premises with thick smoke and triggering chaos among students and others inside.
In an attempt to escape, several people jumped from the upper floors and the terrace, suffering serious injuries.
Eyewitnesses said smoke was first noticed coming out of the building in the afternoon, and within a short time, flames spread rapidly, engulfing the entire structure.
As exits became difficult to access due to fire and smoke, terrified students rushed towards windows and the rooftop. Some jumped from the building to save their lives.
Multiple teams from the fire department, police and district administration reached the spot and began rescue operations. Senior officials, including the District Magistrate and Police Commissioner, were present at the site overseeing the relief efforts.
Rescue teams continued their efforts to reach those trapped inside the building. With help from local residents, evacuation operations were carried out through the rooftop of a nearby building. Firefighters also attempted to break through the walls of the coaching centre to gain access and rescue people trapped inside.
Officials said several injured persons have been admitted to various hospitals for treatment.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.
"The loss of lives in the fire accident in Lucknow is extremely tragic and heart-rending. My condolences are with the bereaved families. I pray to Lord Shri Ram that the departed souls attain peace and the injured recover swiftly," Chief Minister Adityanath said in a post on X.
With IANS inputs