Jhansi, Nov 16 (V7N) — A tragic fire at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College Hospital in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, has claimed the lives of 10 newborns and left 16 others injured. The fire, which broke out on Friday night, has raised serious concerns about hospital safety protocols.

At the time of the fire, 54 children were admitted to the NICU. Officials managed to rescue 44 newborns, while the injured are currently being treated at a local hospital. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak stated that a short circuit inside an oxygen concentrator might have triggered the blaze.

Pathak revealed that a fire safety audit had been conducted at the hospital in February, followed by a mock drill in June. However, hospital sources disclosed critical lapses, including non-functional fire alarms and inadequate maintenance of emergency systems.

Three separate investigations—by the health department, police, and a magisterial inquiry—have been ordered to determine the exact cause of the fire. Seven of the deceased children have been identified, while DNA testing may be used to confirm the identities of the remaining three.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. He also directed senior officials and rescue teams to expedite relief efforts and deploy sufficient firefighting equipment. The Divisional Commissioner and DIG of Jhansi have been tasked with submitting a detailed report within 12 hours.

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their condolences, with the Prime Minister describing the incident as "heartbreaking." Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

This tragedy highlights the urgent need for stringent safety measures and regular maintenance of critical infrastructure in healthcare facilities across the country.