Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow

Lucknow, Jun 22: At least three people were killed after a massive fire broke out at a coaching centre in the Purania area of Aliganj in Lucknow on Monday, trapping several students inside the building, officials said.

Following the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed senior officials to rush to the spot and oversee an immediate rescue operation.

According to officials, eight fire tenders were deployed to contain the blaze. Firefighters broke through a section of the building's wall to rescue those trapped inside, including around two dozen students.

As rescue efforts continued, dramatic scenes unfolded as some students were seen jumping from upper floors in an attempt to escape the flames and thick smoke.

Several injured persons were shifted to the Trauma Centre of King George's Medical University for treatment.

Among the anxious family members gathered at the site was Shakeel Ahmed, whose younger brother was trapped inside the building.

“My younger brother is inside. The last message we received from him said he was running towards the washroom to escape the fire and smoke,” he said.

Chief Minister Adityanath continuously monitored the situation and received regular updates on the progress of the rescue operation.

Authorities also deployed a team of specialist doctors and stationed six ambulances at the site to provide immediate medical assistance and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.

An official from the Chief Minister’s Office said that soon after receiving information about the incident, the Chief Minister instructed concerned departments to reach the location without delay and assess the situation.

He also directed officials to expedite relief and rescue measures and ensure adequate medical treatment for all those injured.

“The administration has been instructed to remain on high alert and continuously monitor the situation. Officials have also been directed to closely supervise relief and rescue operations at all levels,” the CMO official said.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Rescue and search operations were continuing as officials worked to ensure that no one remained trapped inside the building.