Amravati SNCU Fire: Maharashtra Government Orders Strict Action Against Officials After Probe Finds Serious Safety Lapses
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has ordered stringent action against those found responsible for the August 24 fire at the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the Amravati District Women’s Hospital, in which three newborns died. A high-level inquiry into the incident has been completed and its report submitted to the government. Based on the findings, disciplinary proceedings have been ordered…
The Maharashtra government has responded to a devastating fire at the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the Amravati District Women's Hospital, ordering strict action against officials found responsible for the tragedy. The high-level inquiry concluded that serious safety lapses occurred, resulting in the deaths of three newborns and affecting 36 others who were safely moved to other hospitals.
Faulty equipment maintenance, non-functional fire systems, and locked fire pump houses were cited as major concerns. Eight disciplinary actions were ordered against various officials, including the Deputy Director, Health Services, and the Medical Superintendent, while contractual and public works department workers were also targeted.
The inquiry committee recommended blacklisting M/s AOV International LLP and Shilar Company for their roles in the lapse. In response, the government has mandated the installation of CCTV systems in SNCUs and NICUs, mandatory fire-safety mock drills in all government hospitals, and the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for fire safety, electrical safety, and equipment maintenance.
Regular meetings with various agencies are to be held to review hospital safety and ensure the effective implementation of corrective measures.
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