Jhansi, A horrifying fire engulfed a private hospital in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, late Tuesday night, resulting in the death of 10 children in the neonatal and pediatric wards. Sixteen others, including newborns, are in critical condition, with several battling severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit in the pediatric ward, spreading rapidly due to flammable materials. As thick smoke filled the corridors, frantic efforts by families and hospital staff to rescue the children were hampered by poor safety infrastructure and delayed emergency response.
The state government has launched a high-level probe into the incident, aiming to identify lapses and hold those responsible accountable. A compensation of ₹5 lakh has been announced for the families of the deceased, while those injured will receive medical support.
This tragedy has sparked anger and grief, with citizens demanding stricter regulations and safety audits of healthcare facilities across the state. Activists have called for improved emergency preparedness in hospitals to prevent similar catastrophes.
The government has assured swift action, while mourning families struggle to cope with the unimaginable loss. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for robust fire safety measures in critical healthcare settings.
