Lucknow/IBNS, June 22 -- At least 15 people lost their lives after a major fire swept through a three-storey commercial building in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday, prompting an extensive rescue operation and a high-level investigation ordered by the Uttar Pradesh government.

The blaze erupted at the building on Usha Mehta Marg in the Purania locality, sending thick smoke into the air and triggering panic among occupants and nearby residents.

Firefighters, police personnel, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Civil Defence teams worked for several hours before bringing the fire under control.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak confirmed that at least 15 people died in the i...