The investigation into Aliganj fire incident in Lucknow is revealing many serious flaws like biometric lock, lack of emergency exit, no fire NOC and illegal construction.
Lucknow Fire: The investigation into the massive fire that broke out in a commercial building in Aliganj area of Lucknow, in which 15 people died, has revealed many serious shortcomings related to security arrangements. Initial investigation has indicated that after the fire, people present inside the building were unable to come out and got trapped inside. Officials are investigating whether lack of basic fire safety measures, automatic locking systems and alleged violation of building codes played a role in the increase in the number of deaths. Four people, including the building owners, have been arrested in the case, while four officers have been suspended.
Single entry-exit
According to the fire department personnel who were the first to reach the spot, there was only one staircase to go up and down in the entire building and only one common way was available. Due to this, it was not easy for a large number of people to go out together. The teams involved in the rescue operation found that the fire and smoke had spread rapidly throughout the building. Due to this, the students inside were neither able to get out safely nor could they save themselves by reaching the roof.
Questions raised on biometric system
According to sources related to the investigation, an automatic biometric access control system was installed at the main entrance of the animation coaching center operating in the building. Investigating agencies fear that this electronic lock may have become a hindrance in people’s exit after the fire. It is being told that during the fire the electronic system had stopped working and the automatic lock had jammed. Due to this people got trapped inside.
lack of emergency exit
Initial investigation has also revealed that there was no arrangement for emergency exit in the building. In such a situation, after the fire, people were left with no alternative way to get out. According to fire personnel, the access to the building was very limited. For this reason the rescue team had to break a wall to reach the people. Apart from this, many people had to take help of the roof of the neighboring building to get out safely. Due to limited access, relief and rescue operations also faced a lot of difficulties.
Not even fire NOC
The investigating agencies are also probing alleged violations of fire safety rules. This also includes the issue of not obtaining the required ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC) from the fire department. According to fire department officials, there were not enough resources and safety equipment to extinguish the fire inside the building, which made the situation more serious.
Illegal construction also investigated
During the investigation, allegations have also come to light that the building which was originally approved as a single-storey building, was later converted into a three-storey commercial complex. According to Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) and Lucknow Municipal Corporation records, the building was initially approved for residential use. However, later it started being used for commercial activities. Officials say they are trying to find out when and under what circumstances this change in the use of the building was made.
Investigation into the role of owners and related parties continues
According to the investigating officers, this property belongs to three brothers named Virendra Prasad Shukla, Surendra Shukla and Dhirendra Shukla. It is alleged that despite having approval for a residential building, it was developed and operated as a commercial complex. According to the information, an animation training center was operating on the upper floors of the building, while a pet clinic was also running on the second floor.