Southwala Shorts
- A devastating fire broke out in the trauma Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital late Saturday night, leaving six patients...
- Initial reports from hospital authorities indicate that the fire was caused by a short circuit in the electrical system.
- According to officials, the blaze started around midnight in the trauma ward located on the hospital’s upper floor.
- Thick smoke quickly spread through the ICU, trapping several patients who were undergoing treatment for critical injuries.
A devastating fire broke out in the trauma Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital late Saturday night, leaving six patients dead and five others critically injured. Initial reports from hospital authorities indicate that the fire was caused by a short circuit in the electrical system.
According to officials, the blaze started around midnight in the trauma ward located on the hospital’s upper floor. Thick smoke quickly spread through the ICU, trapping several patients who were undergoing treatment for critical injuries. Medical staff and on-duty attendants attempted immediate evacuation while alerting the fire department.
Firefighters reached the hospital within minutes and began rescue operations. Multiple fire tenders were deployed to control the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby wards. The situation was brought under control after nearly an hour of intense firefighting.
Casualties and Injuries
Six patients succumbed to smoke inhalation and burn injuries, while five others are receiving intensive treatment in nearby facilities. Hospital officials confirmed that the deceased were in critical condition even before the incident. The identities of the victims are being verified, and families have been informed.
Government Action and Inquiry
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and announced immediate compensation for the families of the deceased. A high-level inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the short circuit and to assess whether fire safety protocols were adequately followed.
Safety Concerns in Public Hospitals
The incident has reignited concerns over fire safety in public healthcare institutions. SMS Hospital, one of Rajasthan’s largest medical facilities, treats thousands of patients daily. Experts have stressed the urgent need for periodic electrical audits, fire drills, and better maintenance of safety equipment in high-risk areas such as ICUs.
Authorities have assured that all hospital electrical systems and fire alarms will undergo an immediate inspection to prevent any future mishaps.
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