Jhansi: A devastating fire broke out in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, Jhansi, on Friday night, leading to the death of 10 newborns. However, amidst the chaos, 45 babies were heroically rescued. Eyewitness accounts reveal harrowing moments as hospital staff and visitors scrambled to save the infants.
Eyewitness Accounts of Bravery Amidst Tragedy
Kripal Singh Rajput, an eyewitness, shared his chilling experience. “I had gone inside to feed my child when I saw a madam running, her leg engulfed in flames, screaming for help,” Singh recounted. Acting swiftly, he managed to rescue 20 children from the NICU. “Some were on oxygen, some in critical condition. We handed them over to the hospital staff, hoping to save as many as we could,” he added.
Another eyewitness, Rishabh Yadav, described the scene as chaotic. “When the fire broke out, there were about 50 children inside. Parents and staff rushed towards the emergency ward, many not knowing where their children were. The situation was heart-wrenching,” he said, urging the administration to ensure clear communication with affected families.
Conflicting Reports on Cause of Fire
The exact cause of the fire remains unclear. While initial reports point to a short circuit, others suggest negligence involving a nurse lighting a matchstick near an oxygen cylinder. Compounding the tragedy, there are allegations that the hospital’s fire extinguishers were past their expiration date, raising serious questions about safety protocols.
Government Response: Investigation Underway
The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a four-member committee to investigate the incident. The panel has been directed to submit its findings within seven days, after which strict action is expected against those found negligent.
This tragedy has sparked outrage, with calls for a comprehensive audit of hospital safety standards across the state. Families affected by the fire are demanding accountability and immediate support.
A Community in Grief
The fire has left a pall of sorrow over Jhansi, with families mourning their loss while grappling with unanswered questions. The bravery displayed by individuals like Kripal Singh amidst the disaster has been a silver lining, but it also underscores the need for stricter safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the investigation progresses, the focus will remain on ensuring justice for the victims and implementing reforms to safeguard hospital environments, especially in critical care units housing vulnerable patients.
