Tragic Fire in Jhansi Hospital

A devastating fire broke out in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, late last night. The incident, which occurred around 10:45 pm, claimed the lives of 10 newborns and left 16 children in critical condition.

54 Children in NICU During Fire

At the time of the Fire in Jhansi Hospital , 54 children were admitted to the NICU. Authorities swiftly acted and managed to rescue 44 newborns. Seven of the 10 deceased infants have been identified, and officials have stated that DNA tests will be conducted to confirm the identities of the remaining three.

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Parents Protest Amidst Chaos

This morning, chaos erupted as distraught parents were not allowed to meet their injured children. Hospital officials cited concerns over potential identity confusion as the reason for this restriction. The distressed families attempted to block roads in protest but were stopped by security. They are now camping outside the hospital, demanding answers.

Possible Cause: Short-Circuit in Oxygen Concentrator

Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak suggested that a short-circuit in the oxygen concentrator may have triggered the fire. Visuals from the scene showed charred medical equipment and panic-stricken people outside the hospital.

Ongoing Medical Efforts at Fire in Jhansi Hospital

Senior Superintendent of Police Sudha Singh confirmed that the injured children are receiving treatment at local hospitals. She assured the public that all available doctors and adequate medical facilities are focused on saving the injured.

Fire Safety Measures Under Scrutiny

While some have questioned the hospital’s fire safety systems, officials stated that a fire safety audit was conducted in February, followed by a mock drill in June. Deputy CM Pathak announced a three-tier investigation, including probes by the health department, police, and a magisterial inquiry.

Government Response and Compensation

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed immediate rescue efforts and deployed fire-fighting teams. He announced financial aid of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those seriously injured.

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. The PM has also announced ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.

Investigation Report Expected Soon

The government has ordered a detailed report on the incident within 12 hours. Authorities are working to uncover the exact cause and ensure such tragedies do not recur.

“My deepest condolences to those who have lost their innocent children in this. I pray to God to give them the strength to bear this immense loss. The local administration, under the supervision of the state government, is making every possible effort for relief and rescue,” said the Prime Minister.

The opposition in Uttar Pradesh has alleged negligence by the hospital administration with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav demanding action against those responsible.

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