A heartbreaking incident in Bihar's Gaya district has claimed the lives of an elderly woman and her four-month-old granddaughter due to suspected suffocation. The tragic event occurred late on Saturday night in Dakhingaon village, falling under the jurisdiction of the Wazirganj police station.
Details of the Gaya Tragedy
The deceased have been identified as 85-year-old Rekha Malakar and her four-month-old granddaughter, Aarohi Malakar. According to family members, the extreme cold wave prompted them to light three fire pots (angithis) inside their room for warmth. The grandmother, the infant, and the baby's mother were all sleeping in the same room.
In a fatal turn of events, the door and windows of the room were locked from the inside, leaving no ventilation for the smoke to escape. As the night progressed, smoke from the burning coal in the fire pots filled the enclosed space, leading to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide.
Discovery and Aftermath
The grim discovery was made on Sunday morning. Relatives grew worried after receiving no response from the room and subsequently broke open the door. Inside, they found the elderly woman and the infant dead. The baby's mother was found unconscious but alive in the same room.
The young mother was immediately rushed to the government hospital in Wazirganj, where she is currently undergoing treatment. Her condition is reported to be serious. The bodies of Rekha and Aarohi were found on the spot, indicating they succumbed during the night.
Police Investigation and Safety Concerns
Local police have confirmed the incident and stated that a further inquiry is underway. The investigation aims to ascertain the precise sequence of events that led to this double tragedy. Preliminary accounts strongly point towards suffocation caused by the lack of oxygen and inhalation of toxic fumes in the airtight room.
This tragic accident highlights the severe dangers associated with using traditional heating methods like fire pots or coal braziers in poorly ventilated spaces, especially during the winter months. It serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of ensuring adequate airflow when using any source of indoor combustion for heat.
The community in Dakhingaon village is in a state of shock following the sudden loss. The police are completing formalities and will proceed with their investigation based on statements from family members and medical reports.
