Sat Nov 16 22:38:15 UTC 2024: ## Jhansi Hospital Fire Kills 10 Newborns; Investigation Reveals Safety Lapses
**Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh:** A devastating fire at the Maharani Laxmibai Medical College’s children’s ward in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, claimed the lives of 10 newborns and critically injured 16 others late Friday night. The tragedy has sparked outrage and a multi-pronged investigation.
Preliminary police investigations reveal a shocking lack of fire safety measures. The hospital lacked functioning emergency exits, fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and a sprinkler system. Police also discovered a large number of oxygen cylinders on the premises, suggesting illegal refilling practices.
Following the incident, the Uttar Pradesh government swiftly formed a four-member committee, headed by the Director General of Medical Education and Training, to investigate the cause of the fire – believed to be an electrical short circuit – and determine if negligence played a role. The committee, which includes representatives from the health and fire services departments, is tasked with submitting its report within seven days and providing recommendations to prevent future incidents.
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 5 lakh to the families of each deceased child, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an additional Rs 2 lakh in assistance. Meanwhile, grieving parents gathered outside the ward, seeking solace in their shared grief.
The incident also highlighted unrelated issues. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak expressed his anger over the practice of marking roads with lime powder before his arrival at the medical college, a common practice during VIP visits, calling it “very sad” and ordering an investigation into the matter.
First Piper 