LUCKNOW, June 9 -- A citywide fire safety audit launched after the recent hotel fire in Delhi has uncovered major building plan violations in several commercial establishments in Lucknow, with designated parking spaces found converted into commercial and residential-use areas. The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has initiated action against the operators concerned and intensified inspections in areas including Gomti Nagar, Gomti Nagar Extension, Kursi Road, Hardoi Road, IIM Road and Sitapur Road. The violations came to light during a joint drive by the LDA and Fire Department to assess fire safety preparedness and compliance with approved building plans in hotels, banquet halls and restaurants. Officials said such unau- thorised alterations could obstruct evacuation and hamper rescue operations during emergencies. LDA vice-chairman Prathamesh Kumar said teams found several instances where approved layouts had been altered without permission. In Viraj Khand, Gomti Nagar, officials found a prominent hotel had converted basement parking space into facilities such as a bakery, laundry and staff accommodation. On Kursi Road, inspection teams detected unauth- orised construction in mandatory setback areas, while several establishments on Hardoi Road were found operating in violation of approved plans. Notices have been issued to violators seeking explanations. Demolition proceedings have been initiated in some cases, while others have been directed to submit approved building plans and related documents for verification....