At least seven patients, including a child and two women, lost their lives, and 20 others were injured in a devastating fire at a prominent orthopaedic hospital in Tamil Nadu’s Dindigul district. The tragedy unfolded late Tuesday evening, leaving the community in shock.
The fire reportedly originated in the reception area on the ground floor, with authorities suspecting a short circuit as the cause. The flames spread rapidly, engulfing the building and trapping patients and staff inside.
Victims primarily succumbed to suffocation from the thick smoke that filled the hospital, fire service personnel said. Rescue teams worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, which took over an hour to bring under control.
Approximately 50 ambulances were mobilized to transfer patients to safety. Around 30 patients have been admitted to the Dindigul government hospital for treatment, while rescue operations are ongoing to locate any remaining victims.
Local authorities and residents expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire and assess safety measures at the hospital.
This tragic event highlights the critical need for stringent fire safety protocols in healthcare facilities, especially those catering to vulnerable patients.
