Devastating Fire Claims Lives of Newborns in Jhansi
A fire broke out in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, Jhansi, late Friday night. Ten newborns died from burns and suffocation.
Deputy CM Visits the Scene
Deputy Chief Minister Brijesh Pathak reached Jhansi on Saturday morning. He reported that 49 infants were in the NICU, which has only 18 beds. Seven bodies have been identified, while efforts are underway to identify the other three.
Injured Infants Under Treatment
Seventeen injured children are receiving treatment. Seven are in private hospitals, while the rest are in the medical college’s emergency wing.
Fire Rescue Efforts
According to Additional Director General of Police Alok Singh, 47 infants were in the ward during the incident. Firefighters rescued 37 babies, but ten tragically died. Eyewitnesses saw flames around 10:45 p.m., and thick smoke quickly filled the ward, hampering rescue efforts.
Government Response and Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and pledged every possible relief effort. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a detailed investigation and mandated a report within 12 hours.
The government announced ex gratia payments of ₹5 lakh to each family who lost a child and ₹50,000 for the injured. The state will also cover medical expenses for infants admitted to private hospitals.
Cause and Investigation
Authorities suspect an electrical short circuit caused the fire. The oxygen-rich environment in the NICU worsened the blaze. An inquiry has been launched to determine the exact cause.
Conclusion
This tragic incident has left families devastated. Efforts are now focused on ensuring justice and improving safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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