The investigation into the deadly Lucknow Aliganj fire tragedy has gathered momentum with four arrests and multiple administrative actions as authorities seek accountability for a disaster that claimed 15 lives and left 11 others injured. Police have arrested building owner Virendra Shukla, coaching operator Krishna Jaiswal, and pet shop owner Ram Krishna Upadhyay, while another accused has also been taken into custody. Investigators have revealed that the building allegedly lacked a valid fire NOC and essential fire safety infrastructure. The Uttar Pradesh government has suspended four officials and constituted a two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has been directed to submit its findings within seven days. Separately, action has also been initiated against officials linked to monitoring unauthorized construction and building compliance. As the probe continues, survivor accounts are shedding light on the terrifying moments inside the building. Lovepreet, one of the survivors, recalled how thick smoke quickly engulfed the stairways, leaving occupants with almost no escape options. According to her account, she managed to save herself by climbing down using an external cable after realizing that conventional exit routes had become inaccessible. She stated that the absence of an alternative emergency exit may have significantly reduced the chances of escape for many trapped inside. Authorities are also examining allegations that the building was approved for residential use but was being used for commercial activities. Preliminary findings point to concerns over fire safety compliance, emergency preparedness, structural modifications, and evacuation arrangements. While postmortem examinations of most victims have been completed and bodies handed over to families, public attention remains focused on the investigation and whether those responsible for the alleged lapses will face strict legal consequences.
