A horrific fire at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi on Friday night claimed the lives of 10 newborns. While investigations are ongoing, initial reports point to a short circuit in an oxygen concentrator as the likely cause. However, eyewitness accounts suggest negligence may have played a role in the tragedy.
Bhagwan Das, a resident of Hamirpur, was in the ward with his son when the fire started. He has been quoted in a section of the media claiming that a nurse lit a matchstick to connect an oxygen cylinder, which caused the place to ignite almost instantly. In the ensuing chaos, Das managed to save several babies by wrapping them in cloth and carrying them to safety.
The fire broke out around 10:30 pm, and the situation was worsened by expired fire extinguishers and non-functional safety alarms, which delayed efforts to evacuate the ward.
Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak, who oversees the health department, suggested that a short circuit inside the oxygen concentrator may have caused the fire. He emphasized that a full investigation would be conducted, and those responsible would face strict action.
In response to the tragedy, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences and promised an additional Rs 2 lakh for the victims’ families.
While the exact cause is still under review, the incident has raised serious concerns about safety protocols in hospitals, particularly with regard to fire prevention and the maintenance of medical equipment. A detailed investigation report is expected soon to clarify the cause of the fire and hold responsible parties accountable.
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