"Ten children died in a fire that broke out at the Sick Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of Bhandara District General Hospital at 2 am today. Seven children were rescued from the unit," Pramod Khandate, Civil Surgeon, Bhandara, Maharashtra, was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.
Also Read|Nirav Modi's Extradition Soon? Fugitive Diamantaire's Trial Concludes, Verdict Expected On Feb 25
According to the information, a total of 17 children were present in the ICU ward, out of which 10 could not be saved. When the nurse on duty opened the door and saw smoke all around the room, she immediately told the hospital officials. After which the fire brigade reached the spot and started the rescue operation with the help of people in the hospital. The cause of the fire has not been completely clear yet, but sources are telling that the fire occurred due to a short circuit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences knowing the tragic incident
PM Modi took to Twitter and said," Heart-wrenching tragedy in Bhandara, Maharashtra, where we have lost precious young lives. My thoughts are with all the bereaved families. I hope the injured recover as early as possible."
Maharashtra Govt announces 5 Lakh ex-gratia
Ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakhs each to be provided to the kin of the deceased in the fire incident at Bhandara District General Hospital: Rajesh Tope, Health Minister, Maharashtra
Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has ordered an audit of all hospitals on an urgent basis following the fire incident at Bhandara District General Hospital that claimed the lives of 10 babies.
Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari also expressed condolences over the unfortunate incident at Bhandara govt hospital. Koshiyari said, "Extremely saddened to know about the most tragic incident of fire at Bhandara Civil Hospital. Convey my deepest condolences to the families of the innocent children who lost their lives."