Lucknow, June 22: At least 15 students were killed and several others injured after a massive fire broke out at a coaching-cum-gaming centre in the Aliganj area of Lucknow on Monday, triggering panic and a large-scale rescue operation.
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According to officials, the fire erupted around 3 PM in a building located on Usha Mehta Marg. Eyewitnesses said several students were trapped inside, while some reportedly jumped from the building in a desperate attempt to escape the flames.
Quoting Dr. Anil Agrawal, Medical Superintendent of the Trauma Centre at KGMU, Times of India reported that 21 to 22 children were brought to the hospital. “Five injured children have been admitted for treatment. Two of them sustained back injuries after jumping from the building. Fifteen children were brought dead and are being sent for post-mortem examinations,” he said.
A total of 14 fire tenders, including a hydraulic platform vehicle, were pressed into service to contain the blaze and carry out rescue operations.
Authorities said the search operation has been completed and confirmed that no students remain trapped inside the building.
Officials said that the priority remains providing the best possible medical care to the injured. The exact cause of the fire will be determined after a detailed inquiry.
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The government has assured full support to the affected families and said strict action will be taken against those found responsible for the tragedy.
