Deadly Fire in Lucknow: 15 Dead, Several Injured
A fire in an illegally converted commercial building in Lucknow killed 15 people, exposing serious fire safety violations and leading to arrests, suspensions, and statewide inspections.
A massive fire broke out on 22 June 2026 in a three-storey building on Usha Mehta Marg in Aliganj, Lucknow, killing 15 people and injuring several others. Most of the victims were young students and employees working at an animation training centre operating inside the building.
According to reports, the fire started around 2:30 p.m. in a pet shop and clinic on the ground floor. Thick smoke quickly spread through the building, trapping people on the upper floors. Some people jumped from windows and balconies to escape, while others were unable to get out.
Fire brigade teams, police and district officials rushed to the spot and carried out a large rescue operation. A total of 24 people were taken to hospitals, but 15 were declared dead. Officials later said that most victims are believed to have died due to smoke inhalation.
The investigation revealed serious safety violations. The building had originally been approved as a residential property but was later converted into a commercial building. It housed a pet shop, gaming zone, animation training centre and IT office. Officials found that there was no emergency exit, no proper fire safety equipment, no evacuation system and the staircase to the roof was blocked.
Investigators also found that the office used a fingerprint biometric access system. When the fire broke out, the electronic lock reportedly stopped working and trapped people inside.
Police have arrested four people, including a building owner and those involved in managing activities inside the premises. Four government officials have also been suspended for alleged negligence.
The tragedy claimed the lives of several young professionals and students. Among them were Neelesh Kumar and Anamika Samant, who were in a relationship and whose families were preparing for their marriage. Another victim, Sukhmani Singh, reportedly made a final phone call to his father during the fire, asking for help. Several animals inside the pet shop and clinic also died.
Following the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced compensation for the victims' families and free treatment for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief and announced financial assistance.
The tragedy has raised serious concerns about fire safety in coaching centres, training institutes and commercial buildings across India. Following inspections, authorities in Kanpur have already sealed 22 coaching institutes over alleged violations of building and fire safety rules.
