A deadly fire incident in the Aliganj region of Lucknow resulted in the death of 15 people, mostly students, along with several injuries. As investigators delve deep into the incident, they find some shocking information regarding the previous history of the building, and many doubts arise in the process of regulation, safety laws, and administration.
Building Had Faced Demolition Proceedings Years Ago
According to the official documents, it has come to light that the three-storey building was under orders for demolition due to unauthorised construction almost a decade back. The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) ordered the demolition of the building on May 10, 2016, due to some violation of the approved plan of construction.
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A Property That Changed Hands Multiple Times
Another point that investigators are working on is a long chain of transfers of this property. The property was allocated through a lottery process in 1980, registered under the names of Vijay Kumar and Usha in 2005, then transferred to Virendra Pratap Shukla and Surendra Pratap Shukla in 2013.
Residential on Paper, Commercial in Reality
It was reported that the approval for using the building was made for residential purposes. Nevertheless, over time, it was used as a commercial place and was engaged in providing coaching services, training courses and businesses.
Safety Lapses Under the Scanner
Preliminary investigations suggest multiple fire-safety shortcomings. Reports indicate that inadequate emergency exits, rapid smoke spread, and possible violations of safety norms may have worsened the situation.
Arrests, Suspensions and SIT Probe
Following the tragedy, police arrested several individuals, including those linked to the building’s ownership and management. The Uttar Pradesh government has also suspended multiple officials while Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe to determine responsibility and uncover how regulatory failures allowed the building to continue operating despite previous concerns.
