The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has ordered the immediate demolition of the building in Aliganj where a devastating fire at a coaching centre claimed 15 lives. The decision was announced on June 23, 2026, following a review that cited gross safety violations and illegal construction.
Building Declared Unsafe and Illegal
LDA officials stated that the multi-storey structure lacked proper fire safety measures, had narrow staircases, and was built without requisite approvals. The building housed a coaching centre for competitive exams, and the fire, which broke out on June 22, trapped many students. Rescue operations lasted over 12 hours.
According to the LDA, the building's owner had constructed additional floors without permission, violating the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act. The demolition is scheduled to begin within 48 hours, with debris removal expected to take three days.
Death Toll and Injuries
The fire resulted in 15 fatalities, all students aged between 18 and 22. Over 30 others were injured, with 10 still in critical condition at local hospitals. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased and free treatment for the injured.
District Magistrate Surya Pal Singh confirmed that a First Information Report has been lodged against the building owner and the coaching centre management under sections 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and 285 (negligent conduct with respect to fire) of the Indian Penal Code.
Safety Audit Ordered Across City
In the wake of the tragedy, the state government has ordered a comprehensive safety audit of all coaching centres in Lucknow. The audit will check for fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and building plan approvals. Over 200 centres are expected to be inspected in the next week.
Local residents expressed outrage, alleging that the building had been operating illegally for years despite multiple complaints. A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “We had reported the narrow stairs and lack of fire exits to the municipal office several times, but no action was taken.”
Political Reactions and Demands
Opposition parties demanded a judicial inquiry into the incident and compensation for victims. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called it a “man-made disaster” due to negligence. The state government has promised strict action and a high-level probe.
The LDA’s demolition order is seen as a first step towards accountability. However, activists argue that preventive measures should have been in place earlier to avoid such loss of life.
