Lucknow Fire Tragedy: 15 Students Die, Dreams Turn to Smoke

Lucknow: The fire that broke out in a 3-storey building on Usha Mehta Marg in the capital of UP on Monday shook the entire state. 15 people died and 9 were injured in the accident. Investigation revealed that most of the deaths were not caused by the flames but by suffocation due to poisonous smoke. The rescue team took 22 people to the hospital. 15 were declared dead, 7 were discharged after treatment. Currently, 2 injured are undergoing treatment.

What immediate action did the government take?

After the incident the administration took immediate action. Four people including the building owners were arrested. Four officials of the electricity department, fire department and development authority were immediately suspended for negligence. A 2-member SIT has been formed on the orders of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. SIT has to submit complete report in 7 days. An announcement has also been made to provide financial assistance to the families of the deceased. The government made it clear that no one will be spared the culprit.

How did the fire start and why were people trapped?

Preliminary investigation suspects that the fire started from the AC duct. There were few emergency exits in the building. The smoke spread rapidly and people were trapped inside. Experts believe that if there were fire NOC, fire exit and fire fighting equipment, the loss could have been reduced. Narrow stairs and closed windows made rescue difficult.

What was the scene like?

As soon as the fire broke out, students and staff called home and asked for help. The family members arrived immediately but were not allowed inside due to smoke and fire. Parents standing outside were seen crying for their children. The rescue team cut the smoke and pulled the people out. The lamp of many families was extinguished.

Which lives were lost?

24-year-old Aditya Srivastava was returning from coaching, could not reach home. The family were cherishing dreams, everything broke. Abdul Rehman was the only earning member of the family. Father paralysed, mother in shock. With his departure the responsibility of the house hung in the balance. Every family now has only memories and questions.

Did the big leaders reach the spot?

As soon as the information was received, CM Yogi Adityanath left the programme and reached Lucknow. Saw the incident site, then went to the hospital and met the injured. Defence Minister and Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh also arrived. He oversaw the relief work and ordered officers to conduct a strict investigation. Both said - Negligence in security will not be tolerated.'

What will happen next?

After the SIT report, strict action is decided against the culprits. Besides, there will be fire safety check of coaching centres and commercial buildings of the entire city. Preparations are underway to take action against illegal basement classes, closed windows and buildings with only one route. Parents demand that now not just investigation, change should be seen on the ground.