Kozhikode — A fire that broke out at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital (MCH) on Friday evening has sparked chaos, emergency evacuations, and a controversy over reported casualties.
The blaze, which erupted around 8 PM near the MRI section on the ground floor, is suspected to have been caused by a malfunctioning UPS unit, shortly after a power failure was reported at 7:20 PM. Thick smoke rapidly filled the casualty ward, triggering breathing distress among patients and panic among staff and attendants.
Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Vellimadukkunnu and Beach stations, along with police and volunteers, evacuated over 200 individuals, prioritising critically ill patients. At least 30 were shifted to private hospitals, including BMH and Aster MIMS, with two patients on ventilators admitted to intensive care.
Health Minister Veena George confirmed that night emergency services have been temporarily shifted to Beach Hospital, with medical staff from MCH deployed there. The UPS room has been sealed for investigation, and a departmental probe has been ordered.
Contradictions Over Deaths
Initial statements by the hospital and Health Department maintained that no deaths were linked to the fire. However, Kalpetta MLA T. Siddique contradicted this, alleging that at least three lives were lost, including 44-year-old Nazeera from Wayanad, who reportedly died while being moved during the evacuation.
Hospital Principal Dr. Sajith Kumar dismissed the claims, stating that five patients died after 7:20 PM, but none due to the fire. He cited pre-existing critical conditions, including poisoning and terminal illnesses, adding that postmortem results would clarify the cause of death.
Top officials, including MP M.K. Raghavan, MLA Thottathil Ravindran, and District Collector Snehil Kumar, visited the hospital. The Collector assured the public that the situation is now under control, with all patients safe.
However, MP Raghavan criticised the state government for allegedly failing to provide adequate infrastructure and staffing at both the Medical College and Beach Hospital. “Electricity hasn’t even been restored in the affected wing,” he said.
Government Response
Mayor Beena Philip confirmed Beach Hospital is fully prepared to handle the additional patient load. Meanwhile, Minister Veena George’s office said the situation is “fully under control,” with the Fire Force DGP and local authorities monitoring it closely.
As the investigation proceeds, questions remain over the emergency preparedness at one of Kerala’s largest government hospitals and the accuracy of official communication in times of crisis.
