Jhansi: Short circuit turned hospital into crematorium, 10 children burnt alive, 16 injured

10 children died and 16 were injured in a fire in the NICU of Jhansi Medical College. Short circuit is the possible cause of the fire, investigation is underway. CM Yogi expressed grief and sought a report from the officials.

Jhansi. A massive fire broke out in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh on Friday. Due to this, 10 children died. 16 other children were injured.

It is suspected that the fire started due to a short circuit. After the accident, there was chaos and screaming on the spot. Patients started running here and there to save their lives. Family members were seen running with their children in their arms. During this, a stampede-like situation arose.

There were 54 babies in the NICU when the fire broke out

On receiving information about the fire, fire brigade personnel reached the spot. 37 children were rescued from the hospital. At the time of the fire, 54 patients were admitted in the children's ward of the hospital. DM Avinash Kumar has said that the fire is likely to have been caused due to a short circuit. This matter is being investigated. It is being ascertained how the fire started.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asked for a report within 12 hours

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has called this incident heartbreaking. He has instructed the officials to provide better treatment to the injured. The CM has sought a report from the Divisional Commissioner and DIG within 12 hours.

Following the Chief Minister's orders, Deputy Chief Minister Brijesh Pathak and Health Secretary Parth Sarthi Sen Sharma have reached Jhansi to coordinate relief operations. Senior officials including DM, SSP and DIG reached the hospital to monitor rescue and relief efforts.

The condition of 16 injured children is critical

SSP Sudha Singh said that 16 injured children are being treated. Efforts are on to save their lives. All doctors and adequate medical facilities are available. Prima facie, the fire has been caused by a short circuit. A detailed investigation has been started to find out under what circumstances or due to whose negligence it happened. It has also been reported that after the fire, some parents took their children home.