Image Source : The Indian Express
A devastating hospital fire in Jhansi, India has claimed the lives of 10 newborn babies and left 16 others critically injured. The tragedy occurred at the Maharani Lakshmibai Medical College, where a fire broke out in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on November 15, 2024 .
According to eyewitnesses, the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit within an oxygen concentrator, which was further exacerbated by a nurse allegedly lighting a matchstick while handling an oxygen cylinder . The rapid spread of flames and smoke led to chaotic evacuation efforts, with emergency personnel arriving approximately 30 minutes after the fire started.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and grief, with many calling for improved safety measures and accountability. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered an investigation into the incident and announced financial aid of ₹5 lakh (approximately $6,000) for the families of each deceased infant and ₹50,000 for those injured .
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the incident as “heartbreaking” and expressed his condolences to the victims’ families . The opposition has also weighed in, with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticizing the state government’s handling of the incident and calling for improved medical facilities .
The Jhansi hospital fire is a stark reminder of the need for enhanced safety protocols and infrastructure in India’s healthcare system. As the investigation into the incident continues, the nation mourns the loss of young lives and demands accountability and action to prevent such tragedies in the future.
