Subheading: Fire breaks out on multiple floors of private hospital in Paota B Road, emergency evacuation prevents tragedy
Subheading: Preliminary probe points to AC duct short circuit and missing electrical safety inspection compliance
A major fire incident late Wednesday night triggered panic at a private hospital located on Paota B Road in Jodhpur after smoke was first detected in the building’s air-conditioning duct system. The fire, which reportedly started on the first floor, rapidly spread to the second and third floors before being brought under control.
According to hospital authorities, the outpatient department (OPD) had already closed around 7:15 PM when smoke was first noticed. Moments later, the fire alarm was activated, prompting immediate evacuation of patients and staff.
Six admitted patients were swiftly shifted to a nearby private hospital for continued care, while two patients who were scheduled for discharge were safely sent home. During the evacuation process, a female staff member reportedly fainted due to smoke inhalation but no major injuries or casualties were reported.
Local police confirmed that all patients and staff were evacuated safely. Mahamandir SHO Devendra Singh Deora stated that emergency response teams, including the fire brigade and police, reached the spot promptly and managed to control the fire within approximately 30 minutes.
Chief Fire Officer Jai Singh Chauhan said initial findings suggest that a short circuit caused by excessive electrical load on the hospital’s air-conditioning system may have triggered the blaze. Renovation work was also ongoing in the building at the time of the incident, which may have contributed to safety risks.
Preliminary investigation further revealed that the hospital had not undergone its mandatory annual electrical safety inspection. Authorities have ordered a detailed inquiry, and compliance with fire safety norms is now under scrutiny.
Officials will also examine whether lapses in fire safety protocols and electrical maintenance contributed to the rapid spread of smoke and fire through the hospital infrastructure.
