Tragic Fire Claims Lives of Two Young Sisters in Lucknow Slum
Devastating Fire in Lucknow
Photo: @timesofindia/X
Lucknow, April 16: Early Thursday morning, the lifeless bodies of an infant and a toddler were discovered following a catastrophic fire that erupted the previous day in a slum area of Vikas Nagar, Lucknow. The blaze destroyed over twenty huts, causing widespread panic among the local residents.
Authorities confirmed that the deceased were the daughters of Satish, a resident of Kashipurwa village, located under the jurisdiction of Ram Sanehi Ghat Police Station in Barabanki district. The victims have been identified as Shruti, approximately two years old, and her two-month-old sister.
Deeksha Sharma, DCP East, Lucknow, confirmed the tragic loss, stating, "The two bodies have been recovered and returned to the family following the necessary procedures."
The fire reportedly ignited on Wednesday evening in an empty lot near the Ring Road and rapidly spread throughout the settlement, exacerbated by strong winds and the presence of flammable materials in the huts.
Witnesses reported seeing thick black smoke billowing from the area, visible from several kilometers away, as flames quickly consumed the surroundings.
The fire raised alarms due to its proximity to nearby hotels and automobile showrooms, heightening concerns for public safety.
Residents were seen in a frenzy, attempting to salvage their possessions, with many losing everything as the flames turned their homes and belongings to ashes.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak expressed his sorrow over the incident, calling it deeply tragic. He stated, "A significant fire broke out, impacting over a hundred huts... Our primary focus is to ensure the best possible care for the injured in hospitals."
In response to the incident, authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed officials to accelerate rescue and relief operations, ensuring that all necessary support is provided to those affected.
Rescue and relief efforts are ongoing at the scene, with police and fire department teams actively engaged in the operations.
Officials are working diligently to uncover the fire's origin, with further updates expected as the investigation unfolds.