A frightening incident unfolded in Kolkata on Friday when a portion of the ceiling collapsed inside the Critical Care Unit (CCU) of the Medicine Department at Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital, triggering panic among patients and healthcare staff.
Ceiling Collapse in Critical Care Unit Sparks Panic
The incident took place in the hospital’s UNB building, where cracks had reportedly been visible earlier across walls and pillars—indicating possible structural weaknesses. Suddenly, a section of the ceiling gave way, damaging parts of the floor and alarming everyone present inside the CCU.
At least 12 critically ill patients admitted in the unit had a narrow escape, with no injuries reported.
Patients Shifted, CCU Shut Down for Repairs
Following the collapse, hospital authorities acted swiftly by shutting down the affected CCU and relocating patients to other units within the hospital. Officials confirmed that no new admissions will be allowed in the damaged section until repair work is completed.
The repair work is expected to be carried out by the Public Works Department (PWD) on priority, while an internal structural assessment of the building has also been initiated.
سلسلة of Incidents Raises Bigger Questions
This incident comes shortly after a lift malfunction episode at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, intensifying concerns over infrastructure safety in government-run hospitals across West Bengal.
Political Reactions and Allegations of Negligence
Reacting to the incident, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya criticized the state government, questioning how long repeated warnings about poor infrastructure would be ignored.
The episode has also sparked fresh political attacks on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who also holds the Health portfolio. Opposition leaders have alleged systemic negligence, citing repeated failures such as structural collapses and equipment malfunctions.
Authorities Assure Safety Measures and Repairs
Hospital authorities maintained that timely action helped prevent casualties and assured that necessary repairs and safety checks would be undertaken without delay.
The incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for regular safety audits, infrastructure upgrades, and stricter accountability in critical healthcare facilities across the state.
