A major tragedy struck the Mahona town area under the Itaunja police station limits in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, this Friday. During a Muharram procession, a large number of people had gathered on the roof and balcony of a local residence to watch the event. Without warning, the balcony crumbled, trapping those standing on it and those below under the debris. Two 12-year-old boys, identified as Arman and Ali, lost their lives on the spot, while eight others suffered serious injuries. The incident left the entire neighborhood in a state of shock and distress.
Circumstances Leading to the Collapse
Reports indicate that a local resident named Mushtaq was distributing refreshments to those participating in the Muharram procession outside his house. At the same time, several members of his family and neighbors had climbed onto the roof and the balcony to get a better view of the procession. Suddenly, the structure gave way, causing the balcony to fall down, which trapped multiple individuals under the heavy debris.
Rescue Efforts and Medical Response
Upon learning of the collapse, local residents rushed to the site to initiate rescue operations. Police and administrative teams arrived at the scene shortly after. The victims trapped under the rubble were pulled out and rushed to a nearby hospital for immediate medical attention. Doctors declared the two children dead upon arrival, while the eight injured individuals remain under treatment. The condition of some of the survivors is reported to be critical.
Investigation into the Cause
According to eyewitnesses, the collapse happened so abruptly that no one had any time to react. The festive atmosphere of the procession turned into cries of agony within seconds. The families of the deceased children are devastated. Police have inspected the site and launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the structural failure. Preliminary assessments suggest that the balcony may have collapsed due to being overloaded with more people than it could support.
