Deadly Fire in Lucknow Claims 12 Lives
A devastating fire broke out in a residential building in Lucknow on Tuesday, killing at least 12 people and injuring 15 others. The blaze, which started in the early hours, trapped many residents as they slept. Distress calls and eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the ordeal.
Distress Calls and Panic
According to officials, the fire department received multiple distress calls around 3:30 AM. One caller, a resident named Ravi Kumar, said, "We were asleep when we heard screams. Smoke filled the room within minutes. We tried to escape but the stairs were on fire." Another caller, Priya Singh, reported, "My family was trapped on the third floor. We couldn't see anything. The fire brigade arrived after 20 minutes, but by then the flames had spread."
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
Firefighters battled the blaze for over three hours. Rescue teams used ladders and ropes to evacuate residents. At least 12 bodies were recovered, including three children. Fifteen injured were taken to nearby hospitals, with five in critical condition. District Magistrate Abhishek Prakash said, "The rescue operation is complete. We are investigating the cause of the fire."
Eyewitness Accounts
Neighbors described scenes of chaos. "I saw people jumping from windows to save themselves. It was terrifying," said local shopkeeper Mohan Lal. Another eyewitness, Sunita Devi, added, "The flames were so high that they reached the fourth floor. The building's wiring was old; many had complained about short circuits."
Investigation and Aftermath
Authorities have ordered a probe into the incident. Preliminary reports suggest an electrical short circuit may have caused the fire. The building lacked proper fire safety measures, including sprinklers and emergency exits. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
Impact and Safety Concerns
The tragedy has raised questions about fire safety compliance in residential buildings. Lucknow has seen several fire incidents in recent years, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement. Residents of the affected building are now homeless, with many losing all their belongings. Local NGOs have set up relief camps to provide food and shelter.
