A fire broke out on Tuesday in the old emergency building of Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital, causing panic but fortunately resulting in no injuries. The blaze erupted in the storeroom, prompting a swift response from the Delhi Fire Services (DFS).
The fire was first reported around 10:40 am, with DFS chief Atul Garg confirming that seven fire tenders were dispatched to handle the situation. The fire began at gate number six and quickly spread, leading to thick smoke filling the building. Emergency services acted promptly, rescuing a nurse trapped on the third floor by breaking a window to ensure her safe evacuation.
Safdarjung Hospital officials assured that the fire is now under control and no patients were affected. The fire safety system of the hospital was operational and activated promptly to contain the fire. All patients and staff were evacuated swiftly, with no casualties reported.
Manoj Kumar Sharma, DFS Divisional Officer (South), stated that eleven fire tenders, including fire bowsers, were on-site to tackle the blaze. The firefighters managed to control the fire within an hour, ensuring minimal damage to property. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest it might have been caused by a short circuit on the ground floor.
In response to the fire, Safdarjung Hospital released a statement emphasizing the functionality of their fire safety system. The hospital’s Fire Management Team, along with personnel from the CPWD and the Estate Section, responded immediately to the fire. The fire safety system was crucial in containing the fire and facilitating the evacuation of patients and staff.
The hospital's medical superintendent personally supervised the evacuation process, ensuring that all patients were moved safely. The skin ward and the dog bite clinic were relocated to the New Emergency Block as a precaution. The CPWD has been tasked with assessing the damage and determining the necessary repairs.
While the fire was a significant incident, the prompt response of the fire services and hospital staff ensured that there were no injuries or significant damage. The police are conducting an investigation to determine the precise cause of the fire.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)