Tragic Fire Claims Six Lives in Jaipur Hospital
A catastrophic fire broke out at a private hospital in Jaipur late Tuesday night, claiming the lives of six patients and leaving many others injured. The blaze, which started in the ICU ward, spread rapidly, engulfing the building in thick smoke and chaos.
Harrowing Eyewitness Accounts
The fire erupted around 11:30 PM in the densely populated Mansarovar area, reportedly caused by a short circuit. Witnesses described scenes of panic as smoke filled the wards, making it nearly impossible to escape. “The smoke was so thick that I couldn’t even see my own hands,” said Ramesh Kumar, whose mother was in the ICU. “I kept calling out for her, but the smoke was choking me. I couldn’t find her.”
Rescue Efforts and Aftermath
Firefighters arrived within 20 minutes, but the fire had already caused significant damage. Over a dozen fire tenders battled the blaze for nearly two hours before bringing it under control. Six patients, including elderly individuals and those on life support, succumbed to smoke inhalation and burns. At least ten others, including staff, were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.
Outrage Over Safety Failures
The incident has sparked outrage as preliminary investigations revealed the hospital lacked adequate fire safety measures. Functional smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and unobstructed emergency exits were absent, hampering evacuation efforts. “This was a disaster waiting to happen,” said a senior fire department official.
Government Response and Investigations
The Rajasthan government has ordered a high-level inquiry, with Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma vowing strict action against those responsible. The state health department has also been directed to conduct safety audits of all hospitals in the region.
A Grim Reminder of Negligence
The Jaipur hospital fire highlights the urgent need for stringent safety measures in healthcare facilities. Families of the victims are left grieving and demanding accountability. “I just want to know why this happened,” said Ramesh Kumar. “Why wasn’t there a system to save them?”
As investigations continue, this tragedy underscores the critical importance of prioritizing safety in public and private spaces.
