A devastating fire at a private hospital on Tiruchi Road in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, late Thursday night claimed six lives, including a child and two women. The tragic incident occurred at a four-storey hospital, leaving a trail of destruction and grief.
Victims Trapped in Lift, Succumb to Suffocation
Initial reports reveal that five victims, including three men, were trapped in the hospital lift when the fire broke out, and they are believed to have died from suffocation. Among the deceased are Suruli (50) and Subbulakshmi (45), a couple from Theni district; Mariammal (50) and her son Manimurugan (28); Rajashekar (35); and a young girl from Dindigul district.
BIG BREAKING: A fire broke out at City Private Hospital on the #Dindigul-Trichy road, claiming seven lives, including a young boy and three women, and leaving over 20 injured. pic.twitter.com/L9XsiFwUrv
— Shakil Aqthar A (@Shakilaqthar) December 12, 2024
Over 30 Injured, Three in Critical Condition
A total of 32 injured individuals were rushed to the Government Hospital in Dindigul. Three of them, who suffered severe smoke inhalation and burns, are reported to be on ventilators. The condition of these patients remains critical, according to hospital authorities.
Fire Engulfs Hospital Building
The fire, which reportedly began on the ground floor, rapidly spread through the four-storey building. Fire and rescue teams rushed to the scene and managed to bring the blaze under control after hours of effort. Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scenes as smoke engulfed the building, making escape challenging for patients and staff.
Emergency Services Respond Swiftly
Fire and rescue service personnel worked tirelessly to evacuate the building, rescuing dozens of patients and hospital staff. Visuals from the scene show injured individuals being carried out of the hospital amidst thick smoke. Rescue operations continued late into the night to ensure everyone was accounted for.
Cause of the Fire Under Investigation
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with preliminary findings suggesting a possible short circuit in the hospital’s electrical system. The lack of fire safety measures, such as adequate exits and functional alarms, has raised concerns about the hospital’s compliance with safety regulations.
Calls for Stricter Safety Measures
This incident has reignited the debate over fire safety standards in healthcare facilities. Activists and officials are calling for stringent enforcement of safety norms, especially in establishments where vulnerable patients rely on emergency care.
The Tamil Nadu government has assured a thorough investigation into the tragedy and promised stringent action against those found guilty of negligence.
Mourning a Heartbreaking Loss
As Dindigul mourns this devastating loss, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the critical need for fire safety preparedness in public establishments, particularly hospitals.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
