Six Dead, Five Critical After Massive Fire Erupts in ICU of Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh Hospital
In a devastating incident, a massive fire broke out in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital late last night, resulting in six fatalities and leaving five others in critical condition. The blaze, which erupted around 11 PM, has raised serious concerns about safety protocols and infrastructure in one of Rajasthan’s largest government healthcare facilities.
The Incident
Eyewitnesses and hospital staff reported that the fire originated in the ICU ward on the hospital’s second floor. Thick smoke rapidly filled the area, causing chaos as patients, many on life support, struggled to breathe. Hospital authorities initiated evacuation procedures, but the fire’s intensity and inadequate emergency exits hindered rescue efforts.
Firefighters arrived promptly and managed to control the flames after a two-hour operation. However, six patients had already succumbed to smoke inhalation and burn injuries. Five others, including two healthcare workers, were rushed to nearby hospitals in critical condition.
Victims and Families in Grief
The victims included elderly patients and those undergoing treatment for severe ailments. Families of the deceased gathered outside the hospital, demanding answers. “My father was recovering after surgery, and now he is gone. How could this happen in a government hospital?” cried a grieving relative.
The hospital administration expressed regret and announced ₹10 lakh compensation for each victim’s family. However, the tragedy has sparked public outrage over the lack of fire safety measures in a facility serving thousands daily.
Preliminary Investigation
Initial investigations suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit in the ICU’s wiring. Hospital officials admitted that fire safety equipment, including smoke detectors and extinguishers, were either non-functional or insufficient.
This incident has reignited concerns about the state of public healthcare infrastructure in India, particularly in government hospitals often plagued by overcrowding, outdated equipment, and inadequate safety measures.
Government Response
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma ordered a high-level inquiry and directed officials to submit a detailed report within 48 hours. “This is a heartbreaking tragedy, and we will ensure strict action against those responsible. We will also review fire safety measures in all state government hospitals,” he stated.
Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar announced that a team of experts would assess the hospital’s infrastructure and recommend immediate upgrades. He also assured that the injured patients would receive the best possible care.
Public Outcry and Demands for Accountability
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation on social media, with citizens demanding accountability and urgent reforms. Many highlighted that hospital fires have become increasingly common due to negligence and poor maintenance.
Healthcare activists called for a nationwide audit of hospital safety standards and stricter enforcement of fire safety norms. “It’s unacceptable that patients seeking care lose their lives to preventable disasters,” said an Indian Medical Association (IMA) spokesperson.
A Wake-Up Call
The fire at SMS Hospital underscores the urgent need to prioritize safety in healthcare facilities. While compensation and inquiries are essential, they are not enough to prevent future tragedies. The government must modernize infrastructure, ensure regular maintenance, and conduct mandatory fire safety drills in all hospitals.
As the victims’ families mourn, the nation hopes this tragedy will drive systemic change in India’s healthcare sector. For now, the focus remains on supporting affected families and aiding the injured. However, the larger question of accountability and reform demands immediate attention.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
