The tragic fire at Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital Trauma Centre has now claimed eight lives, including six men and two women, as confirmed by officials on Monday morning.
The massive blaze broke out late Sunday night around 11:20 pm in the ICU ward’s second floor, where several critical patients were admitted.
According to preliminary findings, the fire started due to a short circuit in the ICU storeroom, which quickly spread across the ward.
Thick, toxic smoke filled the area, leaving patients trapped and causing deaths due to suffocation and burn injuries.
Hospital staff and firefighters carried out an intense rescue operation, breaking windows and shifting patients to other wards and even to open areas outside the building.
Despite efforts, eight patients lost their lives while several others are battling for survival in critical condition.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma reached the hospital soon after the incident and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives.
He has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident and directed officials to ensure immediate support and medical assistance to the injured.
The CM also stressed on a complete audit of fire safety systems in all government hospitals across Rajasthan.
Families of several victims have accused hospital authorities of gross negligence, pointing to outdated wiring and poor safety preparedness.
The state government has assured that strict action will be taken against those found responsible for the tragedy.
This shocking incident has reignited the debate over fire safety lapses in India’s major hospitals, especially in critical care units.
