LUCKNOW, July 25 -- The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) on Saturday demolished the illegal Aliganj commercial complex where a fire claimed 15 lives last month. The LDA took over the operation after the owners failed to fully raze the unauthorised structure despite being given 15 days.

The demolition of the three-storey building at plot number MS-102 began Saturday morning, supervised by two heavy earthmovers and three zonal officers. Police personnel were deployed and traffic around the site was diverted to ensure the demolition was carried out safely.

As a precaution, officials evacuated residents from houses adjoining the commercial complex before the demolition began to prevent damage to nearby properties or risk to lives.

Accor...