A fire broke out late last night at the neonatal ward, SNCU of Rani Lakshmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, killing 10 babies from suffocation and burns. It started around 10:30 pm, causing chaos and panic among the staff of the hospital and the families at the ward.
Blaze Strikes Neonatal Ward
Six fire brigade units, with an Army firefighting vehicle, have been rushed to the spot to douse the flames. Till date, 37 infants have been evacuated safely but over 50 are feared to be trapped in the ward. The smoke was too thick inside the ward and did not allow rescuers to reach in time. The initial reports indicate that a cylinder may have caused the blast which eventually took the form of a massive fire.
Problems in Rescue Operations
To avoid further damage, the power supply in the hospital was cut off, yet the lack of safety alarm automatically made it a disaster as it might have delayed people evacuating the premises. The fire fighters were dealing with fires and smoke, though the seriousness of the conflagration complicated their work.
Government and Health Officials Respond
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has demanded a complete investigation into the incident with further rescue operations. Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak and other top health officials are flying to Jhansi to take stock of the situation. A team of specialists from Kanpur is also being sent to the site for post-treatment as well.
Region in Shock as Families Mourn
The tragedy in Bundelkhand has shocked a region where Rani Lakshmi Bai Medical College remains an extremely important facility for neonatal care and deliveries. Distraught families thronged the scene, while local police managed the crowds and ensured order during this sensitive situation. Investigations are pending because authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the fire.
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