A tragic fire broke out early Thursday morning in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a private hospital in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district, claiming at least three lives, a senior official confirmed.
Details of the Incident
The blaze erupted at Prasad Hospital in the Brahmpura area, rapidly spreading through the ICU and filling it with dense smoke. Muzaffarpur District Magistrate Subrat Kumar Sen stated, 'We received information about the fire early in the morning. At least three people have died in the incident.'
Patient Evacuation and Response
Around 13 to 15 patients were undergoing treatment in the ICU at the time of the fire. They have since been relocated to other hospitals by their family members. Sen added, 'We are trying to reach out to the kin of the deceased and other patients. The fire has been brought under control.'
Probable Cause
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire may have been caused by a short circuit. Sen noted that the exact cause would be determined after a detailed inquiry.
Government Action and Compensation
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary termed the incident 'extremely tragic' and expressed condolences to the bereaved families. In a post on X, he announced, 'Instructions have been issued to immediately provide an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh to the families of each deceased. The local administration is fully alert, and adequate arrangements have been made in district hospitals for the treatment of the injured.'
Hospital Management's Response
The hospital management confirmed its cooperation with the administration and stated that an internal inquiry has been initiated into the incident.
