In a devastating incident, a fire in a neonatal ward in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, has led to the tragic deaths of ten newborn infants, highlighting serious safety concerns.
Tragic Hospital Blaze Claims Lives of Infants in Northern India
Tragic Hospital Blaze Claims Lives of Infants in Northern India
A disputed electrical fault results in the loss of ten newborns at Jhansi hospital.
The terrible event occurred on Friday night when flames broke out in the intensive care unit of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College Hospital. While hospital staff managed to rescue 44 infants, the situation remains critical for at least 16 others, according to officials.
Initial investigations suggest that the blaze may have been ignited by an electrical malfunction, possibly linked to a machine responsible for elevating oxygen levels in the ward. Eyewitness images captured the distress of families awaiting news outside, reflecting the profound sorrow of the community.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sympathies through a social media message, describing the parents' loss as "heart-wrenching." His statement offered condolences and prayers for strength during this devastating time.
Local authorities reported that out of the deceased, three infants' identities are still unconfirmed. Indian media highlighted that a safety review was conducted in February of this year, with a subsequent fire drill in June, raising questions about the adequacy of safety measures in place.
In response, the Uttar Pradesh state government has committed to providing financial support of 500,000 rupees (approximately $5,900) to the affected families. This incident echoes another tragic event from May, where six newborns perished in a private neonatal facility fire in Delhi, underscoring ongoing concerns regarding hospital safety in the country.
Initial investigations suggest that the blaze may have been ignited by an electrical malfunction, possibly linked to a machine responsible for elevating oxygen levels in the ward. Eyewitness images captured the distress of families awaiting news outside, reflecting the profound sorrow of the community.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sympathies through a social media message, describing the parents' loss as "heart-wrenching." His statement offered condolences and prayers for strength during this devastating time.
Local authorities reported that out of the deceased, three infants' identities are still unconfirmed. Indian media highlighted that a safety review was conducted in February of this year, with a subsequent fire drill in June, raising questions about the adequacy of safety measures in place.
In response, the Uttar Pradesh state government has committed to providing financial support of 500,000 rupees (approximately $5,900) to the affected families. This incident echoes another tragic event from May, where six newborns perished in a private neonatal facility fire in Delhi, underscoring ongoing concerns regarding hospital safety in the country.
