In the wake of the devastating fire incident at a coaching institute in Lucknow, the Uttar Pradesh government has launched a statewide special drive aimed at tightening regulations on coaching centres and taking strict action against institutions operating illegally.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed authorities to conduct a comprehensive fire safety audit across the state in mission mode, emphasizing that buildings must only be used for the purposes for which they have been officially approved. He made it clear that coaching institutes, nursing homes, or any other commercial establishments operating in basements would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
According to official reports, all District Magistrates have been instructed to carry out a detailed survey of coaching institutes functioning in their respective districts. The exercise will involve preparing a comprehensive list of institutions and examining their compliance with safety and operational standards.
The inspections will focus on key areas, including:
Authorities have also been directed to conduct regular inspections of registered coaching centres to ensure student safety and assess whether institutions are adhering to prescribed norms.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the Lucknow fire incident has gathered momentum. A two-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) visited the site of the tragedy on Tuesday to assess the situation firsthand.
The team also met injured victims undergoing treatment at King George's Medical University (KGMU) and collected information regarding the circumstances surrounding the fire. In addition, experts from the Uttar Pradesh Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) visited the site and gathered crucial evidence that could help determine the cause of the incident and identify any lapses.
SIT member and Additional Director General (ADG) of Uttar Pradesh Police, Praveen Kumar, said that several individuals would be questioned based on the evidence collected so far.
He noted that the investigation would examine the role and responsibilities of every department connected to the incident. Statements from the victims and other stakeholders would also form an important part of the probe.
"The responsibilities of all concerned departments have been brought within the ambit of the investigation. Information will also be obtained from the fire victims, following which the report will be submitted to the government within the stipulated timeframe," Kumar said.
The government's latest action reflects growing concerns over safety standards in educational institutions, particularly coaching centres that often operate in densely populated urban areas. The statewide audit and enforcement drive are expected to identify violations, improve emergency preparedness, and ensure that coaching institutes comply with fire safety and building regulations.
Officials believe the crackdown will not only address illegal operations but also help prevent similar incidents in the future by strengthening accountability and prioritizing student safety across Uttar Pradesh.
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