A significant fire erupted at ESI Hospital in the Sealdah area of Kolkata around 6 AM on Friday morning, prompting an immediate response from the local fire department. At least 10 fire engines were dispatched to the scene to combat the blaze.
According to officials, a patient in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) tragically lost their life due to the fire. Approximately 80 other patients were safely evacuated from the facility. The exact circumstances surrounding the patient’s death remain unclear, and no additional injuries have been reported.
The fire reportedly originated in one of the hospital wards, but it was brought under control before it could spread to other areas of the facility. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic environment as patients were seen sitting outside the hospital with their caregivers. Many of those evacuated were subsequently transferred to other hospitals for further treatment.
West Bengal Fire and Emergency Services Minister Sujit Bose arrived at the hospital shortly after the incident was reported, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. District Fire Officer TK Dutta characterized the event as “terrifying,” noting, “Nearly 80 patients were trapped inside. Within 20 minutes, we successfully rescued them all. One patient who was admitted to the ICU died, but there is no other casualty. There was smoke in the ward, and the patients were yelling ‘bachao’ (save us) from the window,” he added, reflecting on the urgent response required during the emergency.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, hospital authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of the patients affected by this unfortunate incident.
Sources By Agencies