Punjab: A fire broke out in the Nikku ward of Jalandhar’s Civil Hospital around 5 a.m. this morning, causing panic among the patients. However, security personnel managed to evacuate the entire ward in time. Four children were admitted there.

The fire brigade arrived and brought the fire under control. It is being reported that the overheating of the AC caused a short circuit, which led to the sudden fire. However, this has not yet been officially confirmed.

Smoke Spread After AC Caught Fire

After the fire broke out in the ward, smoke spread and the team brought the children out safely.

According to eyewitnesses, the AC overheated due to the heat and a short circuit caused a sudden fire. Within moments, black smoke began to billow from the AC, and the flames engulfed other nearby items.

Toxic and thick smoke spread through the ward, causing panic among the newborns, mothers, and hospital staff. Given the severity of the situation, the fire brigade was immediately informed.

Fire Brigade Controlled the Blaze

Upon receiving information about the incident, fire brigade vehicles and a team of firefighters immediately arrived at the scene. Relief and rescue operations began swiftly. After a tremendous effort, the fire brigade teams brought the fire under control and made efforts to remove the smoke that had spread throughout the ward.

According to the fire officials present at the spot, after the fire broke out in one AC, it also affected the other AC and the wiring of the room, due to which the electrical wires there were completely burnt to ashes.

Patients Shifted to Safety

Hospital security and staff responded quickly upon learning of the fire. All newborns and their mothers admitted to the maternity ward were immediately shifted to safer locations and other wards.

The hospital’s security officer stated that there was no major damage to property or loss of life in the incident. All patients and children are completely safe. However, the fire destroyed beds, mattresses, electrical equipment, and other essential items in the room. The fire was so intense that the walls of the room turned black.