Muzaffarpur Hospital Fire Tragedy: Death toll rises to 6 after ICU patient dies in Bihar
The death toll in the hospital fire tragedy in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur has risen to six after another patient, who was rescued from a smoke-filled ICU, succumbed during treatment at a separate healthcare facility on Friday.
District Magistrate Subrat Sen confirmed that the deceased, identified as Brajnandan Rai from Kurhani block, was among several critically ill patients evacuated from Prasad Hospital after smoke filled the intensive care unit following a suspected short circuit.
Officials said that given the critical condition of ICU patients, all rescued individuals were shifted urgently to nearby hospitals for treatment. Despite medical efforts, Rai did not survive his injuries caused by smoke inhalation.
An ex gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh has been provided to the victim’s family as per state government policy.
The incident occurred on Thursday when five patients reportedly died after choking inside the ICU as smoke rapidly spread following the electrical short circuit. Allegations have also surfaced that hospital staff abandoned patients during the emergency.
In response to the tragedy, the district administration has constituted a five-member committee to investigate the incident. Tirhut Division Commissioner Girivar Dayal Singh has also directed that an FIR be registered to ensure accountability and action against those responsible for negligence.
Authorities are currently examining lapses in hospital safety protocols and emergency response systems, while rescue and investigation operations continue.
