A fire at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College Hospital in Jhansi on Friday night resulted in the deaths of at least 10 newborns, with 44 others rescued from the ward. Authorities report that 16 infants remain in critical condition following the incident, which is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault, possibly linked to a malfunctioning oxygen machine. Eyewitness accounts reveal a scene of despair as parents awaited news of their children outside the hospital.
Tragic Hospital Fire Claims Lives of Ten Newborns in Northern India
Tragic Hospital Fire Claims Lives of Ten Newborns in Northern India
A devastating fire in a neonatal ward of a hospital in Uttar Pradesh has led to the tragic death of ten newborn infants, drawing national attention to healthcare safety.
The fire erupted around 22:30 local time, prompting swift action from hospital staff who successfully evacuated nearly all infants. However, despite early safety evaluations, including a review in February and a fire drill conducted in June, officials have faced criticism for insufficient safety measures. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, calling the loss "heart-wrenching" and extending prayers to the bereaved families.
As a response, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced compensation of 500,000 rupees (approximately $5,900) for the families affected by this tragedy. This incident marks the second major hospital fire involving newborns in India within six months, following another incident in May that resulted in the death of six infants in a private neonatal facility in Delhi. As the investigation into the cause of this recent fire continues, the spotlight remains on hospital safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
As a response, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced compensation of 500,000 rupees (approximately $5,900) for the families affected by this tragedy. This incident marks the second major hospital fire involving newborns in India within six months, following another incident in May that resulted in the death of six infants in a private neonatal facility in Delhi. As the investigation into the cause of this recent fire continues, the spotlight remains on hospital safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
