'Expired fire extinguishers, faulty alarm system': Jhansi hospital tragedy exposes safety lapses

The tragic fire incident at Jhansi Medical College in Uttar Pradesh, which killed 10 newborn babies, has exposed the safety lapses of the hospital administration.

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the hospital, where the tragedy occurred, had expired fire extinguishers and the safety alarm did not sound on time, delaying evacuation efforts, India Today reported.

According to the preliminary investigation, the filling date stated on the fire extinguishing cylinders was 2019 and the expiry date was 2020. After the fire broke out, the fire alarm also did not go off.

The fire broke out around 10:30 pm on Friday and created a stampede-like situation.

DNA test may be performed for identification: Dy CM

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said on Friday that DNA tests would be conducted if necessary to identify three of the 10 newborns who lost their lives.

Seven of the deceased babies have been identified.

“Ten newborns have died, seven have been identified and three are yet to be identified. If necessary, DNA tests will be conducted,” Pathak said while talking to reporters.

He added that instructions have been issued to investigate the incident and the local administration has been asked to submit an investigation report within 24 hours.

Prima facie, a short circuit in the oxygen concentrator appeared to be the cause of the fire, the deputy CM said.

PM Modi and CM Adityanath announce ex Gratia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh to the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. He expressed his sadness over the incident and offered his condolences to the relatives.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the parents of the newborns who died in the accident.