Tragic Fire Claims Lives at SMS Hospital ICU
In a devastating incident, six patients lost their lives after a fire broke out in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital on Tuesday night. The tragedy has raised serious concerns about fire safety in one of Rajasthan’s largest healthcare facilities.
How the Incident Unfolded
The fire erupted around 8:30 PM in the ICU ward of the hospital’s Trauma Centre, which was housing 12 critically ill patients. Thick smoke quickly filled the area, creating chaos and panic. Despite immediate efforts by hospital staff and firefighters, six patients succumbed to smoke inhalation and burn injuries. The remaining patients were evacuated and are currently under observation in other wards.
Eyewitness Accounts and Investigation
Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion, with hospital staff struggling to manage the situation due to inadequate fire exits and emergency protocols. “The smoke spread rapidly, and it became difficult to breathe,” said a relative of one of the victims.
The fire department doused the flames within an hour. Preliminary investigations suggest a short circuit in the ICU’s air conditioning unit as the cause, though other possibilities are being explored.
Outrage and Calls for Accountability
The incident has sparked outrage among citizens and political leaders. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed his condolences and ordered a high-level inquiry. “Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the negligence,” he stated.
Fire Safety Lapses Exposed
The tragedy has highlighted the lack of fire safety measures in government hospitals. SMS Hospital reportedly lacked functional fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and emergency exits in the affected ward. Similar incidents in Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad have raised concerns about fire safety in Indian hospitals.
Demands for Reform
Health experts and activists are urging immediate reforms. “Hospitals are supposed to be places of healing, not death traps. Regular fire safety audits and infrastructure upgrades are essential,” said Dr. Rakesh Gupta, a public health advocate.
Compensation and Next Steps
The Rajasthan government has announced ₹5 lakh compensation for each victim’s family and will cover the medical expenses of the injured. The focus now shifts to ensuring justice and implementing stricter safety protocols.
A Grim Reminder for the Nation
The fire at SMS Hospital underscores the urgent need to prioritize safety in public institutions. While the loss of lives is irreversible, this tragedy must serve as a wake-up call for systemic changes to prevent future incidents.
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