At least 15 people, most of them students, were killed after a fire tore through a commercial building in Lucknow, northern India, on Monday. 

The building reportedly housed a pet shop and veterinary clinic on the lower floors and an animation studio and study center above. Eyewitness accounts emerged of students forced to jump from windows to escape, while others trapped inside called for help.

A CGTN stringer interviewed several witnesses who recalled the terrifying moments as the blaze raged. 

Locals questioned the building approval process and safety supervision, calling for a thorough investigation. "We should at least try to get the children out of this situation," said S.K. Mathur.