Tragic Fire Erupts in Lucknow: Are Students Trapped Inside?
Fire Incident at Commercial Building in Lucknow
Lucknow: A significant fire broke out in a three-story commercial structure in Lucknow on Monday afternoon, prompting a swift response from the fire department, according to officials.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that some individuals may have been trapped inside, while others reportedly leaped from the building to escape the flames, although no official confirmation has been provided.
As of now, officials have not reported any casualties, but further updates are anticipated.
The fire department was alerted to the incident around 3 PM regarding the building situated on Usha Mehta Marg, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Aliganj police station. A total of fourteen fire engines, including a hydraulic platform, were dispatched to combat the blaze.
Local police arrived promptly after receiving the alert, and teams from nearby fire stations were mobilized with water tenders and firefighting gear. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak also visited the scene.
Witnesses reported that several young individuals managed to escape the building, while others are feared to be trapped inside. However, the police and fire department have not confirmed any such reports.
A fire department official involved in the rescue efforts stated that the first floor had been searched, and no individuals were found there.
A nearby resident who operates a guest facility mentioned that panic ensued at the scene, with some claiming that students might still be inside the building.
Footage from the location depicted firefighting crews in protective gear scaling the building with ladders. Another team was seen attempting to access the building from an adjacent structure of similar height, while others continued to work on extinguishing the fire.
Unverified videos circulating on social media appeared to show a young man falling from the first floor of the building amidst the flames. Bystanders quickly moved him away from the area, but his condition remains unknown.
A local resident recounted, "Upon my arrival, I noticed smoke pouring from the building. Some students had already been rescued, and 4 to 5 managed to escape."
Despite this, it is believed that some individuals are still trapped inside, though the exact number is unconfirmed. "We can only hope for everyone's safe return. The firefighters took some time to arrive," he added.
Another local speculated that the fire might have been ignited by a spark, stating that seven to eight students jumped to save themselves, while approximately 20 to 25 students are still feared trapped.
The firefighting efforts are ongoing, and more information is expected soon.