A significant fire incident occurred at the Civil Hospital in Jalandhar on Tuesday morning, prompting the urgent evacuation of patients from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The blaze, which started around 5:30 AM, caused panic among patients and their families, though hospital staff managed to shift four infants to the trauma ward without any loss of life or injuries.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that eyewitnesses suspect the fire originated from an overheating air conditioner, which led to a short circuit. Dense smoke quickly enveloped the NICU ward as flames spread, prompting an immediate alert to the fire brigade.
Firefighters responded promptly and were able to bring the fire under control. Preliminary assessments suggest that the initial fire started in one air conditioning unit and subsequently spread to another unit and the room’s electrical wiring, causing damage to the electrical infrastructure.
A visitor’s personal belongings, including clothes and medical reports, which were placed near the air conditioner, were also damaged in the incident. The visitor recounted the rapid escalation of the event, stating, “Everything happened so fast. We rushed out as smoke filled the ward. My clothes and medical reports were damaged. Thankfully, everyone was safe, but it is frightening to think what could have happened if the fire had spread further.”
The hospital’s security in charge confirmed that there were no casualties or injuries, with all patients accounted for and safe. However, the fire resulted in the destruction of beds, mattresses, electrical equipment, and other items within the NICU, while the walls sustained smoke damage.
Patient Evacuation and Precautionary Measures
Medical Superintendent Dr. Namita Ghai provided details on the immediate response and precautionary measures taken. She stated, “We have shifted the patients admitted in the ward to the trauma ward. As a precautionary measure, we have also evacuated patients from the adjoining labour room and gynaecology wards. Around 60 patients had been safely evacuated by 6.15 am. Fortunately, no one was injured.”
Dr. Ghai further added that an examination of the electrical wiring is underway, and a detailed inspection will be conducted to ascertain the exact cause of the fire. The hospital administration is working to assess the full extent of the damage and implement necessary repairs and safety upgrades.
The incident at Jalandhar Civil Hospital highlights ongoing concerns regarding fire safety infrastructure in public buildings, particularly those housing vulnerable populations such as infants in NICU units. While the swift action of hospital staff and emergency services prevented a tragedy, the event serves as a reminder of the critical importance of regular maintenance and updated safety protocols in healthcare facilities across the region.
The investigation into the precise cause of the electrical fault and the subsequent fire is expected to provide insights for reinforcing fire prevention measures at the hospital and other public institutions. Officials are expected to review the electrical systems and fire safety equipment within the hospital to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The prompt response and successful evacuation underscored the dedication of the hospital staff in ensuring patient safety during a critical emergency.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
