Sun Nov 17 00:48:56 IST 2024: ## Jhansi Hospital Fire Kills 10 Infants, Injures 16
**Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh:** A devastating fire at the Maharani Lakshmibai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, claimed the lives of at least 10 infants and critically injured 16 more on Friday night. The blaze, believed to have been caused by a short circuit, erupted around 10:45 PM in the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Over 50 infants were in the NICU at the time of the fire. While most were rescued, the rapid spread of the flames resulted in the tragic loss of life. Seven of the deceased infants have been identified and their bodies released to their families; identification efforts continue for the remaining three. The condition of three of the injured infants remains critical.
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced financial aid for the victims’ families – ₹5 lakh (approximately $6,000 USD) for each deceased infant and ₹50,000 (approximately $600 USD) for each injured child. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak visited the hospital, noting that a fire safety audit was conducted in February and a mock drill in June. He stated that a full investigation will determine the cause of the tragedy.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav demanded punishment for those responsible. A four-member panel, headed by the Director General of Medical Education and Training, has been formed to investigate the incident. Furthermore, fire safety inspections have been launched in hospitals across Gautam Buddh Nagar district following the tragedy. The Jhansi District Magistrate stated that 38 infants in the ward survived the fire.
The incident highlights serious concerns about fire safety protocols in Indian hospitals. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the fire and whether negligence played a role.
First Piper 