Lucknow Development Authority Issues Demolition Notice for Aliganj Building
The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has issued a demolition notice for the Aliganj building where a fire on Monday claimed 15 lives, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The three-storey structure, which housed an animation centre, had previously received a demolition order in 2016 over unauthorised construction, but that order was revoked less than two months later.
LDA Vice Chairperson Prathamesh Kumar stated that the new demolition notice is based on construction violations. He also announced an inquiry into officials who may have shown laxity in enforcing building regulations. "We have initiated inquiry against officials for laxity and action will be taken against them," Kumar told PTI. The process to identify responsible officials and their role in the negligence has begun.
Fire Incident and Casualties
The massive fire broke out on Monday afternoon in the commercial building located in a posh neighbourhood of Lucknow. It resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, mostly students, and injured nine others. The building housed an animation centre, and the fire engulfed all three floors rapidly.
Authorities have also launched a crackdown against its own officials in connection with the illegal operation of the residential building as a commercial space. The building was originally designated for residential use but was being used commercially without proper authorisation.
SIT Investigation Underway
A two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted on the directions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, reached the spot on Tuesday morning and began its investigation. The SIT comprises Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism) Amrit Abhijat and Additional Director General of Police, Lucknow Zone, Praveen Kumar.
"We have come here and will investigate all aspects of the incident. We will complete the probe within the stipulated time and ensure necessary action," Praveen Kumar told reporters at the site. The investigation aims to ascertain the cause of the fire, possible lapses, and responsibility in connection with the blaze.
Forensic Analysis and Evidence Collection
Before the SIT team arrived, a six-member team of forensic laboratory experts from the Uttar Pradesh Forensic Science Laboratory reached the spot in the morning and started examining the scene. They collected evidence and analysed the debris to determine the origin and cause of the fire.
Officials said that the forensic team is focusing on identifying any potential electrical faults, gas leaks, or other ignition sources that may have sparked the blaze. The findings will be crucial in establishing negligence or criminal liability.
Background of Building Violations
The Aliganj building had a history of unauthorised construction. In 2016, the LDA issued a demolition order, but it was revoked shortly after. Officials are now investigating how the revocation was allowed and whether any officials were complicit in bypassing building codes.
According to LDA records, the building was constructed without proper approvals and violated setback norms. Despite the initial demolition order, the building continued to operate commercially, raising questions about enforcement of safety regulations.
Government Response and Public Safety Measures
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed grief over the incident and ordered a thorough probe. He also announced compensation for the families of the deceased and free treatment for the injured.
The state government has directed all local bodies to conduct safety audits of commercial buildings, especially those operating in residential areas. The LDA has been asked to identify and take action against all buildings with similar violations to prevent future tragedies.
