Jhansi: A devastating fire at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, claimed the lives of 10 newborns late last Friday night. The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the state, prompting swift action from the government. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak visited the site on the instructions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to assess the situation and ensure accountability.
Fire Safety Measures Questioned
Deputy CM Pathak revealed that a fire safety audit was conducted at the medical college in February, followed by a mock drill in June. Despite these precautions, the incident occurred, allegedly due to a short circuit in an oxygen concentrator. Pathak emphasized that a detailed investigation is underway, with the local administration tasked to submit a report within 24 hours. “The situation is being closely monitored, and DNA tests will be conducted if necessary to identify the unidentified victims,” he added. Financial assistance will also be provided to the bereaved families.
Rescue and Response Efforts
The fire broke out in the NICU around 10:30–10:45 PM on Friday, filling the corridor with dense smoke. Of the 47 newborns admitted to the ward, 35 were rescued by firefighters and the relief team. Tragically, 10 newborns succumbed to the incident. Visuals from the site show firefighters breaking glass windows to aid rescue operations, while panicked parents and attendants gathered outside the facility.
Six fire brigade vehicles were dispatched to the spot, and the fire was eventually brought under control. However, the horrific incident raised serious concerns about the hospital’s preparedness to handle emergencies.
Political and Public Reaction
BJP MLA Rajiv Singh Paricha expressed deep sorrow over the incident, calling it “unfortunate and heart-wrenching.” He praised the efforts of the doctors and firefighters who managed to save many children. “Prima facie, the cause appears to be a short circuit, but we must wait for the investigation report for conclusive findings,” he stated.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the incident as “extremely sad and heartbreaking” in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He assured the public that relief and rescue operations were being conducted on a war footing and directed officials to ensure the injured receive the best medical care.
Investigation and Next Steps
A high-level committee led by the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Inspector General of Police has been constituted to investigate the incident. Authorities have vowed to identify lapses and hold those responsible accountable. “We will set up a helpline for families of missing newborns and ensure transparency in the investigation,” Deputy CM Pathak said.
Meanwhile, the surviving infants are receiving treatment, and efforts are being made to comfort their families. The tragedy has sparked widespread calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations in hospitals across the country to prevent such incidents in the future.
This incident highlights the critical need for robust fire safety mechanisms, especially in sensitive areas like neonatal care units. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the administration to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
