New Delhi: At least 10 newborns died tragically after a fire broke out in a government hospital in Bhandara, Maharashtra in the early hours of Saturday. After the fire broke out in the hospital, the staff there informed the fire brigade. Hospital staff immediately took action to save the children and they were successful in saving 7 out of 17 children. Diseased children ranged in age from a few days to a few months.
Bhandara Collector Sandeep Kadam said, “The fire broke out on the exterior of the hospital at around 1.30 am. At the time, the children’s ward had two nurses and an assistant. He immediately sounded the alarm and alerted everyone to the fire brigade. Before reaching the fire brigade, the hospital staff tried to save the children and were successful in rescuing seven infants. ”
Civil Surgeon Dr. Pramod Khandate said, “Most of the newborns died due to asphyxia. One child had fatal burn injuries, and two other children suffered minor burns. “
Hours after the incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray ordered an inquiry after talking to state Health Minister Rajesh Tope and the Superintendent of Police and Superintendent of Police of Bhandara district. Thackeray said the government would conduct an audit of all newborn care units across the state to ensure safety. The state government also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased. No post mortem was done and the bodies were handed over to the family.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident ‘ heart-wrenching’. He tweeted, “Heartbreaking tragedy in Bhandara, Maharashtra, where we have lost precious young lives. My thoughts are with all bereaved families. I hope the injured recover soon. “
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, “The fire accident in Bhandara District Hospital, Maharashtra is very unfortunate. I have pain beyond words. My thoughts and condolences are with the bereaved families. May God give them the strength to bear this irreparable loss. “
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his condolences. “The unfortunate incident of fire at Bhandara District General Hospital in Maharashtra is very sad. My condolences to the families of the children who lost their lives. I appeal to the General Secretary to provide all possible help to the injured and the families of the dead. “