LUCKNOW: At least 14 students have died after a devastating fire broke out in a coaching centre located in a commercial building in the Aliganj area of Lucknow on Monday, officials and local media reported.
According to authorities, the blaze erupted suddenly on the upper floor of a three-storey building that also housed a pet shop, veterinary-related businesses, and other commercial units on the lower floors. The fire spread rapidly, filling the building with thick smoke and trapping students inside the coaching centre.
Eyewitnesses said panic spread quickly as visibility dropped and escape routes became blocked. Several students attempted to escape by jumping from windows on the first floor. Emergency services later recovered at least 14 bodies from the site, while multiple injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Firefighters battled the blaze for over an hour before bringing it under control. Rescue teams had to break through parts of the structure to reach trapped individuals due to heavy smoke and limited access inside the building.
Local officials confirmed that rescue operations were completed after ensuring no further students remained inside. A high-level investigation has been ordered to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unknown at this stage.
Indian political leaders, including senior officials and the Prime Minister, expressed condolences and announced financial assistance for the families of the victims.
Authorities are now examining possible safety violations and fire compliance issues in the building, as concerns grow over safety standards in mixed-use commercial structures.
