Bharuch hospital fire

Bharuch Hospital Fire

The Bharuch Hospital Fire was a tragic incident that occurred in Bharuch, a city in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The fire broke out on May 1, 2021, at the Patel Welfare COVID Hospital, causing the death of 18 people.

Background[edit | edit source]

The COVID-19 pandemic in India had put a significant strain on the country's healthcare system, with hospitals across the country facing a shortage of beds, oxygen, and other essential medical supplies. The Patel Welfare COVID Hospital in Bharuch was one of the many facilities dedicated to treating COVID-19 patients.

The Incident[edit | edit source]

On May 1, 2021, a fire broke out in the ICU ward of the Patel Welfare COVID Hospital. The fire reportedly started around midnight and quickly spread through the ward. The hospital staff, along with local fire brigade services, attempted to control the fire and evacuate the patients. However, due to the severity of the fire and the patients' critical condition, 18 people lost their lives in the incident.

Aftermath[edit | edit source]

The Bharuch Hospital Fire led to an investigation by local authorities into the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggested that a short circuit may have been the cause. The incident also sparked a nationwide discussion on the safety standards in Indian hospitals, particularly those treating COVID-19 patients.

The Government of India and the Gujarat state government announced compensation for the victims' families. The incident also led to increased scrutiny of fire safety measures in hospitals across the country.