Tragic Fire in Lucknow Claims Lives of Students, Raises Questions on Building Safety
Devastating Fire Incident in Lucknow
A catastrophic fire broke out on Monday afternoon in the upscale Aliganj area of Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, leaving the nation in shock. This horrific blaze engulfed a three-story building, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 15 individuals, most of whom were students. Additionally, nine others sustained serious injuries. At the time of the incident, a class was in session at an animation institute located on the second floor, where many students became trapped as the flames spread. In the aftermath of this dreadful tragedy, serious allegations of administrative negligence, illegal commercial use, and corruption have emerged. Preliminary investigations have raised significant concerns regarding the operations of the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA).
Investigation into Building Records
Following this unfortunate event, a thorough examination of the building's historical records and actions taken by the development authority is underway. The building, where the fire occurred, was reportedly ordered to be demolished in 2016 due to alleged illegal construction.
Suspicion Surrounding Demolition Order Cancellation
However, less than two months later, this demolition order was revoked, raising serious questions about the circumstances surrounding this decision.
Property Approved for Residential Use
Identified as Building No. MS/102/D in Sector D of the Aliganj scheme, this property was originally allotted to Vijay Kumar, son of Rameshwar Sahai, through a lottery system under a hire-purchase scheme on July 11, 1980. Following an agreement on November 4, 1980, possession of the house was handed over to the allottee.
Ownership Transfers and Approvals
In 2005, the property was officially registered in the names of Vijay Kumar and his wife Usha through a sale deed. Subsequently, on January 19, 2013, the couple sold the property to Virendra Pratap Shukla and Surendra Pratap Shukla. The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) officially recorded the ownership transfer on August 7, 2014.
Concerns Over Revocation of Demolition Order
Spanning approximately 1,992 square feet, the building's blueprint was approved for residential use under a self-certification building plan scheme on August 20, 2014.
Legal Action Against Unauthorized Construction
Following allegations of unauthorized construction, the Lucknow Development Authority filed case number 08/2016 against Virendra Pratap Shukla. After an investigation, the competent authority issued a demolition order for the illegal construction on May 10, 2016.
Reversal of Demolition Order Under Scrutiny
However, a significant point of concern, which has resurfaced after the tragic fire, is that the demolition order was revoked on July 5, 2016, less than two months after it was issued.
Investigation into Circumstances of Revocation
The conditions under which the demolition order was rescinded are now likely to be investigated, as officials are examining the causes of this tragic incident and any potential lapses associated with it.