New Delhi: The death toll in the fire that broke out at a private hospital in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur has increased to seven after another patient died during
treatment on Saturday. The latest victim was identified as Anjani Kumar Singh, a resident of Parri village in Muzaffarpur district.
Singh had been rescued from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Prasad Hospital after the fire erupted on Wednesday night. However, he later succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment, officials said.
Fire broke out in hospital ICU
The incident took place late on Wednesday at Prasad Hospital in Muzaffarpur. Preliminary findings indicate that a short circuit may have triggered the fire. According to officials, thick smoke quickly spread through the ICU, where several patients were receiving treatment. Five patients died on Thursday, while another victim succumbed to injuries on Friday. The death of Singh on Saturday has taken the overall toll to seven.
Hospital registration suspended
After the incident, authorities suspended the registration of Prasad Hospital with immediate effect. Muzaffarpur District Public Relations Officer Pramod Kumar said the action was taken after preliminary findings pointed to alleged negligence and violations of safety norms by the hospital administration.
The Civil Surgeon has also asked the hospital management to submit a detailed explanation along with supporting documents and evidence within seven days.
Three staff members arrested
The investigation has led to the arrest of three hospital staff members. Authorities are examining whether there were failures in emergency response measures and whether proper efforts were made to evacuate patients after the fire started.
Investigators are also looking into allegations that some staff members left the premises during the emergency. Officials said the exact sequence of events is still being verified.
Victims died due to smoke inhalation
Director General (Fire) Shobha Ahotkar had earlier stated that none of the victims suffered burn injuries. According to officials, all seven deaths occurred due to asphyxiation after patients inhaled large amounts of smoke trapped inside the ICU.
The incident has drawn attention to fire safety arrangements in healthcare facilities, particularly in critical care units where patients may be unable to evacuate without assistance. Authorities have launched a broader probe to examine whether the hospital complied with mandatory fire safety regulations and emergency preparedness requirements.
