SALAR NEWS

15 dead as fire engulfs coaching centre building in Lucknow's Aliganj

PM Modi announced Rs 2 lakh compensation for the kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

https://www.salarnews.in/public/uploads/images/newsimages/maannewsimage22062026_182409_Lucknow Aliganj Fire.jpg

Smoke billows from the three-storey building in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday

Lucknow, 22 June

At least 15 people lost their lives after a massive fire broke out at a three-storey commercial building in the Aliganj area of Lucknow on Monday, triggering hours of rescue operations, a high-level probe ordered by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and an announcement of compensation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The fire erupted at the building on Usha Mehta Marg in the Purania locality, which housed a pet shop and a coaching centre. Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the sky as flames tore through the structure, sparking panic among residents and those trapped inside.

Firefighters and police personnel launched an intensive rescue effort that continued for several hours before the blaze was brought under control. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak confirmed that at least 15 people had died in the incident, with most of the victims believed to be young people who were inside the building when the fire broke out.

The toll came after hours of uncertainty over how many people were trapped inside the smoke-filled premises.

PM Modi announces ex-gratia compensation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced financial assistance for victims' families. In a post on X, he said he was anguished by the tragedy and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families, adding that rescue operations were underway with authorities providing all possible assistance.

The Prime Minister's Office announced ex-gratia compensation from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF). An amount of Rs 2 lakh will be provided for the next of kin of each deceased victim, and Rs 50,000 for those injured.

Cause of fire under investigation

According to reports, the fire department received information about the blaze around 3 pm and deployed 14 fire tenders, including a hydraulic platform vehicle, to control the flames.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Fire and police officials are expected to carry out a detailed investigation once cooling operations are complete and the building is cleared as safe for inspection.