Amidst Lucknow Coaching Centre Blaze, Rescue Teams Save 16 Animals Trapped on Ground Floor
LUCKNOW: During a devastating fire at a coaching centre in the Aliganj area on Monday, rescue operations took an unexpected turn as firefighters and volunteers worked simultaneously to save both human lives and animals.
The fire, which broke out in a multi-storey building, trapped several people on the second floor. While the primary focus remained on rescuing those inside, the desperate cries of animals from the ground floor also drew attention.
Local volunteers, along with police and fire brigade personnel, launched a parallel rescue effort. In total, 16 animals—8 cats, 7 dogs, and a parrot—were safely brought out of the burning structure. The first survivor to emerge was a grey cat, found curled up inside a tray. A policeman then carried out another cat, its fur blackened by soot but still breathing. A third cat followed in a large cage.
The fire was eventually brought under control, and all human occupants were evacuated. No casualties were reported among either humans or animals. The animals were handed over to local animal welfare groups for medical attention.
This incident highlights the importance of comprehensive emergency planning that accounts for the safety of pets and stray animals. Officials have praised the coordinated efforts of the rescue teams.
