Lucknow: The Vikasnagar slum cluster tragedy on Apr 15 spilled onto social media feeds — triggering not just shock, but an unprecedented wave of citizen-led relief.Within hours of videos and reels showing charred homes, injured residents and families sitting amid ashes going viral, individuals, influencers and NGOs across Lucknow began mobilising support.In the days that followed, a significant portion of immediate relief reaching over 1,000 displaced residents came not through formal channels, but via online appeals and grassroots networks.“The moment the videos started circulating, our phones didn’t stop ringing,” said Khushi Kanaujia, 21, a volunteer with NGO. “People from across the city and even outside wanted to help. Many had never been here, but they felt connected after seeing the situation online.”Sparsh Verma, 17, another volunteer, said digital platforms helped bridge the gap between victims and donors almost instantly. “We created posts, shared needs, and within hours, people were sending clothes, tarpaulins and essentials. Social media became our coordination centre,” he said.Several NGOs and citizen groups, local youth collectives, and religious organisations like bababhootnathmandirlucknow — used their online presence to amplify calls for help.Other groups, including student-led initiatives and independent volunteers, launched crowdfunding drives.Influencer Saquib, who runs a social media page, said, “When people saw children sitting in ashes and families with nothing left, they didn’t think twice. Social media turned into a lifeline”.Volunteers like Shruti Negi, 22, echoed this sentiment. “The scale of destruction shown in those videos moved people to act immediately. It wasn’t just sympathy — it became action.”For survivors, the online response translated into tangible relief. “We received clothes, blankets and even study materials for children through these efforts,” said Ishan, a class 12 student, who lost his home in the fire.Relief operations continued on the second day, with AMUOBA Lucknow distributing food packets, utensils, clothes, towels and other essential supplies among victims.Secretary of AMUOBA Lucknow, Shahla Haque, has urged NGOs and volunteer groups to coordinate efforts through a common platform to ensure efficient utilisation of resources and avoid duplication.
