200 patients rescued after fire breaks out at Kamala Raja Hospital in Gwalior

Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh – A massive fire broke out at Kamala Raja Hospital in Gwalior city in the wee hours of Sunday, following which around 190 patients, including those admitted in the ICU, were immediately evacuated. Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported.

According to Gwalior Collector Ruchika Chauhan, the fire broke out at around 1 am in the air conditioner unit located in the ICU of the gynecology department of the hospital. The hospital is part of the Gajara Raja Medical College.

As soon as the fire was detected, the hospital staff, including guards and ward boys, worked swiftly to evacuate the patients. The ICU patients were rescued by breaking the windows and were rushed to a nearby super-speciality hospital. All the patients from the ICU and other wards were safely evacuated to ensure their well-being.

A statement from the state public relations department said the fire was caused by a short-circuit. Fire engines of the Gwalior Municipal Corporation were deployed to douse the fire, so that the hospital premises do not suffer further damage.

“The hospital was engulfed in thick smoke, making visibility almost impossible. However, the staff responded quickly, allowing all the patients to be evacuated safely,” said an attendant of a patient. “At the moment, our patient is safe and has been shifted to another ward.”

Officials have assured that an investigation will be conducted to find out the exact cause of the fire and prevent such incidents in the future. Meanwhile, the hospital has resumed operations, and patients are receiving the necessary medical attention at alternative facilities.

Safety measures being reviewed

In the wake of the incident, officials are expected to review the hospital’s safety protocols and electrical systems to minimise the risk of fire. The state government has also called for a comprehensive assessment of fire safety arrangements in all government hospitals to prevent such incidents.

While the rescue efforts were lauded for their efficiency, the incident highlights the urgent need for stronger fire safety measures at medical institutions across the state.