Hardoi – A massive fire broke out at Kirti Krishna Bal Chikitsalaya, a private children’s hospital in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh, on the evening of July 16, causing widespread panic. Quick action by hospital staff, families, and locals ensured the safe evacuation of over two dozen children, with no casualties reported. Here’s the latest on this alarming incident.
The Fire Breaks Out
The blaze started around 4 p.m. in the hospital’s basement on Nagheta Road, Hardoi, likely due to a short circuit, according to early reports. Thick smoke quickly spread to the upper floors, filling the wards where children, including newborns, were admitted. Chaos erupted as families and staff scrambled to evacuate patients. With flames blocking main exits, some used sarees and makeshift ropes to lower children from upper floors, while others climbed down bamboo ladders. The hospital, a key healthcare facility for children in the region, had around 30-40 young patients at the time.
Heroic Rescue Efforts
Before the fire brigade arrived, local residents and hospital staff took charge. Videos circulating online show people tying sarees together to create ropes, carefully lowering infants to safety. Others used ladders to help families escape through windows and rooftops. “It was terrifying, but everyone worked together to save the kids,” said a local shopkeeper who joined the rescue. Over two dozen children, including those in the ICU, were safely moved to nearby hospitals. The quick thinking of attendants and locals prevented a tragedy, though the scene was chaotic, with families clinging to railings amid heavy smoke.
Fire Brigade and Official Response
The fire brigade reached the scene about 30 minutes after the fire started, drawing criticism from locals for the delay. Firefighters worked for hours to control the blaze, which had spread due to flammable materials in the basement. Hardoi police and district officials were also present, assisting with the evacuation and securing the area. The District Magistrate has ordered a probe to investigate the cause and assess safety violations. Preliminary reports point to a short circuit, but officials are examining whether the hospital followed fire safety norms. The absence of the hospital’s operator, Dr. C.K. Gupta, during the incident has sparked anger among families.
What Will Happen Next?
The investigation into the fire’s cause is underway, with officials expected to release a report soon. The hospital remains closed as authorities assess structural damage and safety compliance. District officials have promised support for affected families, including medical care for evacuated children. The incident has sparked calls for better fire safety regulations in Uttar Pradesh’s private hospitals, especially those serving vulnerable groups like children. There’s also growing pressure to hold hospital management accountable for any lapses.
A Wake-Up Call for Safety
The fire at Kirti Krishna Bal Chikitsalaya is a stark reminder of the need for robust safety measures in hospitals. While the courage of locals and staff saved lives, the incident highlights gaps in emergency preparedness. As Hardoi recovers from this scare, the focus is on ensuring such incidents don’t happen again. The community’s quick response turned a potential tragedy into a story of resilience, but it’s a wake-up call for stricter oversight and better safety systems across Uttar Pradesh’s healthcare facilities.
