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Building's Flaws Fueled Deadly Lucknow Pet Shop Fire
23 Jun
Summary
- Fire killed at least 15 people, including five women.
- Suspected short circuit in an air-conditioner may have started blaze.
- Multiple structural and safety failures contributed to the tragedy.
A fire in Lucknow's Aliganj, believed to have originated from a short circuit in a pet shop's air-conditioner, resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, including five women. Fire safety experts have indicated that the disaster was a consequence of multiple building and fire-safety deficiencies.
The rapid spread of the blaze was fueled by combustible materials and hindered by insufficient evacuation routes, trapping students and employees. The structure contained a pet shop and veterinary clinic on its lower floors, with a library and a gaming studio above.
Experts highlighted that poor building design, a high concentration of flammable items, lack of ventilation, and inadequate escape paths significantly contributed to the disaster. Combustible materials like pet food bags, furniture, and plastic packaging provided ample fuel for the fire.
Further investigation is underway to determine if an automatic access-control system, possibly biometric, delayed the evacuation process. An employee reported the main entrance remained locked during the fire, wasting critical time. The building's conversion from residential to commercial use without necessary safety upgrades amplified the risks.
