Mumbai: In a shocking incident, a fire broke out at Bhatia Hospital in South Mumbai’s Grant Road area on Monday afternoon, triggering brief panic among patients, attendants, and hospital staff.
Swift Response by Fire Brigade
The fire was reported around early afternoon, prompting an immediate response from the Mumbai Fire Brigade. Several fire engines along with additional firefighting vehicles and equipment were rushed to the spot to control the situation.
Fire Confined to CT–MRI Unit
According to officials, the fire was confined to electrical wiring and installations in the CT–MRI unit located on the ground floor of the hospital. Though thick smoke filled the affected area, firefighters acted swiftly to prevent the blaze from spreading to other sections.
Blaze Brought Under Control Quickly
Fire officials said the flames were brought under control within a short span of time and were completely extinguished later in the afternoon. Timely action by the fire brigade helped avert a major disaster in the busy hospital.
Emergency Services on Alert
As a precautionary measure, multiple emergency response teams were mobilised, including the fire brigade, police, BEST officials, ward staff, and ambulance services. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported in the incident.
Special Focus on NICU Safety
Special precautions were taken for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit located directly above the affected area. Due to the risk posed by smoke, firefighters and hospital staff carefully shifted newborns to safer wards in a stage-wise manner.
Officials Explain Evacuation Strategy
Speaking to local media, a fire officer said that if smoke levels had increased, it could have endangered the infants. Therefore, a gradual and controlled shifting was carried out to ensure their safety without creating further panic.
Cause of Fire Under Investigation
While the exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, officials suspect an electrical fault as the likely reason. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the cause and assess safety measures at the hospital.
