Gujarat : Fire Breaks Out at Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, No Casualties Reported

AHMEDABAD,GUJARAT : A fire broke out on Thursday at the Cancer Hospital within the Civil Hospital campus in the Asarwa area of Ahmedabad city. The incident occurred in the air conditioning (AC) compressor located on the fifth floor of the new building of the Cancer Hospital, part of Asia’s largest public hospital.

According to initial reports, the fire started in the AC compressor. Hospital staff quickly responded, utilizing fire safety equipment to extinguish the flames. The prompt action was triggered by the smell of something burning emanating from the fifth floor. Concurrently, patients were swiftly relocated to safer areas, including one patient from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), averting potential casualties.

Dr. Rakesh Joshi, the Superintendent of Civil Hospital, confirmed that the fire was extinguished almost immediately after it started. “Bringing the fire under control quickly prevented major damage. There were no casualties or injuries to any patients or staff,” Dr. Joshi stated.

The initial cause of the fire was linked to a malfunction in the heater coil, which stopped working as the humidity increased. The hospital team promptly diagnosed and resolved the issue, ensuring no further complications. The hospital’s three new buildings are equipped with comprehensive fire safety systems, which played a crucial role in managing the situation.

As a precaution, the fire brigade was informed and conducted an inspection of the site. The fire brigade confirmed that there were no further issues, and all fire safety measures were adequately in place.

Dr. Joshi reassured the public, stating, “All services are running smoothly in the well-equipped building. We have a valid fire NOC (No Objection Certificate) for all the buildings, including the Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute, which is part of our campus. The buildings are equipped with the necessary fire safety measures, and we conduct regular drills and training to ensure preparedness.”

Just a week before the incident, the hospital had conducted a three-day training program on disaster management. This preparation was instrumental in the hospital staff’s effective and rapid response to the fire, highlighting the importance of regular safety drills and training.

Patients and their families expressed relief that the incident was handled efficiently and without harm. One patient, who was in the ICU at the time, was moved to a safe location, showcasing the hospital staff’s quick thinking and dedication to patient safety.