Lucknow: In the aftermath of the devastating Aliganj fire that claimed 15 lives, the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has launched a citywide enforcement drive against establishments violating fire safety and building regulations. As part of the action, Bhumi IAS Coaching Centre, Vidya Mandir Coaching and Drishtikon Library were sealed in Gomti Nagar for failing to comply with mandatory safety norms.
The inspection campaign is being conducted jointly by the LDA, Fire Department and police on the instructions of LDA Vice-Chairman Prathamesh Kumar. The drive will continue for the next three weeks and cover coaching institutes, libraries, hotels, nursing homes, dance studios, playgroup schools and commercial complexes.
Coaching Centres and Library Sealed
According to officials, Bhumi IAS Coaching Centre was sealed due to congested classrooms, the absence of emergency fire exits and a narrow access route. Vidya Mandir Coaching in Viraj Khand was found violating fire safety norms, while Drishtikon Library in Virat Khand was sealed for operating commercially from a residential property without adequate fire safety arrangements.
The crackdown also targeted several other institutions, including Allen, Gravity, Aakash, Government Exam Wala and Paramount. On Wednesday alone, the LDA sealed 71 establishments and issued notices to 83 building owners for safety and building plan violations.
Read also: UPSC’s AI Audit Flags 569 Ineligible Candidates Before Prelims; Major Reform After Puja Khedkar Case
Action Triggered by Deadly Aliganj Fire
The enforcement drive follows the June 22 fire in Aliganj, where a blaze engulfed a multi-storey building housing a pet shop, veterinary clinic, Learning Space Library and Head Hopper Studio, a company engaged in 3D art production and game asset outsourcing.
Fifteen employees working at Head Hopper Studio lost their lives in the incident, while several others sustained injuries. The tragedy sparked widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of fire safety compliance in commercial establishments operating from mixed-use and residential buildings.
Officials Face Accountability
LDA Vice-Chairman Prathamesh Kumar revealed that the building had originally received approval as a residential structure in 2016. However, commercial activities later began on the premises. He noted that demolition orders issued earlier were withdrawn under unclear circumstances.
Following preliminary investigations, action has been initiated against 19 engineers and six PCS officers, including former Executive Engineers, Assistant Engineers and Junior Engineers who were posted in the area at the relevant time. Some of the officials have already retired.
Report Sent to PMO
The Uttar Pradesh government has submitted a detailed report on the incident to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The report covers rescue and relief operations, compensation to victims, FIRs, arrests, suspension of officials, findings of the preliminary inquiry and the ongoing SIT investigation.
Authorities have also outlined measures to prevent similar tragedies and strengthen enforcement of fire safety and building regulations across the state.
Read also: Centre Begins Recruitment for 1.83 Lakh Government Jobs; Railways, SSC and UPSC Lead Hiring Drive
