Tragic Fire in Indian Hospital Claims Lives of 10 Newborns
In a heartbreaking incident, a fire broke out in the neonatal unit of a hospital in Jhansi, northern India, claiming the lives of 10 newborns and injuring 17 others. The incident occurred late Friday night at the Maharani Lakshmibai Medical College, which is located approximately 450 kilometers south of New Delhi.
Uttar Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Brajesh Pathak, reported that 38 newborns were rescued from the ward, which housed 49 infants at the time of the fire. Pathak confirmed that the injured babies are currently receiving treatment at different facilities, including some private hospitals.
The fire erupted around 10:30 PM local time, and the authorities are investigating its cause. Preliminary information suggests that a faulty oxygen concentrator may have triggered the blaze. Disturbing images from the scene showed burnt beds and walls in the ward, while families waited anxiously outside for updates on their loved ones.
As medical staff worked diligently to care for the survivors, the rescued babies were moved to another area of the hospital where they were given intravenous drips. While seven of the deceased have been identified, efforts are ongoing to determine the identities of the remaining three infants.
A government official indicated that one infant is still unaccounted for. Following this tragedy, Pathak stated that a safety audit had been conducted at the hospital earlier this year, along with a fire drill. He assured the public that if any negligence is found, strict actions will be taken against those responsible.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the loss, calling the situation “heart-wrenching” and extending his condolences to the bereaved families. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a compensation of about $5,900 for the families affected by the tragedy.
Fires in buildings are unfortunately common in India, often due to poor construction practices and inadequate safety measures. Just six months prior, a fire in a children’s hospital in New Delhi also resulted in the deaths of seven newborns.
