LDA Seals Allen Institute After Fire Incident in Gomti Nagar
The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) on Thursday sealed the premises of Allen Institute, a prominent coaching centre located in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, following a fire that broke out earlier in the day. The action was taken after a short circuit reportedly caused a blaze in the building, raising serious safety concerns.
According to LDA officials, the institute was sealed for violating building safety norms and operating without proper fire safety clearances. The authority also issued a notice to the management, directing them to address the violations before the premises can be reopened.
Fire Erupts, No Casualties Reported
The fire started around 10:30 a.m. on the first floor of the four-storey building, which houses classrooms and administrative offices. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and the blaze was brought under control within an hour. No casualties or injuries were reported as students and staff were evacuated promptly.
"We received a call about the fire at 10:35 a.m. Three fire engines were deployed, and the fire was extinguished by 11:30 a.m. The cause appears to be an electrical short circuit," said a senior fire department official.
LDA Cites Safety Violations
During the inspection, LDA officials found that the institute lacked adequate fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and a proper evacuation plan. The building also did not have a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the fire department, which is mandatory for educational institutions.
"The institute was operating in violation of safety norms. We have sealed the premises until the management complies with all regulations," said an LDA spokesperson.
Students and Parents Express Concern
Many students and parents gathered outside the sealed building, expressing anxiety over the incident. "We were inside the classroom when we heard shouting. We rushed out and saw smoke. It was scary," said a student who wished to remain anonymous.
Parents demanded strict action and better safety measures at coaching centres across the city. "Our children's lives are at risk. The authorities should ensure all institutes follow safety guidelines," said a parent.
Previous Incidents Highlight Safety Lapses
This incident comes months after a tragic fire at a coaching centre in Surat that claimed several lives. In response, the Uttar Pradesh government had directed all coaching institutes to obtain fire NOCs and conduct regular safety audits. However, enforcement has been lax.
According to LDA records, at least 15 coaching centres in Lucknow are operating without valid fire NOCs. The authority has issued show-cause notices to several institutes in the past month.
Action Against Other Institutes Likely
Following the Allen Institute incident, the LDA has announced a city-wide crackdown on coaching centres that violate safety norms. "We will inspect all coaching centres in Lucknow within a week. Those found violating norms will face strict action, including sealing of premises," said the LDA spokesperson.
The fire department has also been directed to conduct surprise checks at educational institutions. Officials said that over 100 institutes in the city have been identified as high-risk.
