Lucknow Building Fire: Locked Doors, Poor Ventilation Blamed for 15 Deaths

A devastating fire in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday claimed 15 lives, with initial investigations pointing to stored flammable materials, a locked biometric door, and inadequate ventilation as key factors.

Survivors reported that commodities stored on the first floor, which was being used as a warehouse, fuelled the flames. The building lacked proper fire extinguishers, officials said.

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA), Fire Services Department, and Power Department are among the agencies responsible for monitoring such commercial operations in residential zones. The building is located in Sector D, Aliganj, a primarily residential area.

Authorities are probing whether the structure had the necessary fire safety clearances and if the commercial use violated zoning regulations. The LDA is tasked with ensuring compliance with building codes and land-use norms.