A devastating fire at the neonatal unit of Maharani Lakshmibai Medical College in Jhansi, India, claimed the lives of 10 newborns on Friday night, while 39 others were rescued. The fire, reportedly caused by a malfunctioning oxygen machine, broke out at around 10:30 pm local time (1700 GMT), leaving families and hospital staff in anguish.

Charred beds and walls inside the ward painted a grim picture of the disaster, as anguished parents gathered outside. “My child has gone forever,” one grieving mother cried, embodying the heartbreak that engulfed the scene.

Heroic Efforts Save Lives

Dr. Narendra Sengar, the medical college principal, confirmed that the 39 rescued babies, all only days old, were unharmed and transferred to a new unit for care. “Doctors and staff on duty rushed to the rescue without caring for their own lives. Thanks to them, we could save 39 babies. They are the real heroes,” Sengar said.

The hospital has commenced postmortem examinations of the deceased infants.

Investigation and Response

Authorities suspect the fire originated from an oxygen-enrichment device. Police superintendent Gyanendra Kumar Singh stated, “All children rescued are safe and getting medical attention.”

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, who visited the hospital, promised a thorough investigation. “If any lapses are found, strict action will be taken against those responsible,” he said. A safety audit and fire drill were conducted earlier this year, raising questions about possible oversights.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, calling the deaths “heart-wrenching.” He extended condolences to the grieving families via X and prayed for their strength in this difficult time.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a compensation of 500,000 rupees ($5,900) for each bereaved family, assuring them of justice.

Recurring Safety Concerns

The tragedy follows a similar incident six months ago, when a fire at a New Delhi children’s hospital killed six newborns. That hospital was found to be improperly licensed, and its owners were arrested.

India’s history of lax enforcement of safety regulations has made building fires a recurrent issue, often resulting in tragic loss of life. Friday’s fire adds to the grim tally, underscoring the urgent need for stricter compliance and better infrastructure in healthcare facilities.

For now, the families of the deceased cling to memories of their lost children, while the nation mourns another preventable tragedy.