Amravati: Maharashtra govt has ordered stringent action against officials and agencies found responsible for lapses that led to the fire at the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the Govt Women’s Hospital in Amravati on Aug 24, in which three newborns lost their lives.
A high-level inquiry into the incident has been completed and the report submitted to the govt. Acting on its findings, public health dept directed disciplinary proceedings against officials responsible for negligence and supervisory failures. The inquiry committee identified serious deficiencies in maintenance and functioning of critical safety and medical infrastructure. Among the lapses were delayed maintenance and repair of ventilators, non-functional fire alarm and sprinkler systems, and a locked fire pump house at the time of the incident. The report also pointed to shortcomings in the technical inspection of equipment. Administrative action has also been ordered against contractual employees.
Govt has directed suspension of officers held prima facie responsible for supervisory lapses. Those facing action include deputy director of health services, Akola circle; medical superintendent of Govt Women’s Hospital, addl district surgeon, Amravati; and administrative officer and electrician of the hospital.