Patna: The Bihar government has ordered a detailed investigation into the fire at a private hospital in Muzaffarpur that claimed multiple lives and injured several others. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary said the inquiry would establish the circumstances that led to the tragedy and determine whether any safety lapses contributed to the incident.
The fire broke out late at night and rapidly spread through a large section of the hospital, triggering panic among patients, attendants and medical staff. Rescue operations were launched immediately, with hospital employees, local residents and emergency responders helping evacuate patients from the building.
Government Orders Detailed Investigation
Speaking on the incident, Vijay Kumar Chaudhary described the fire as a deeply tragic event and said the government was treating the matter with utmost seriousness.
He said the investigation would examine the cause of the fire, assess compliance with safety norms and identify any negligence. Appropriate action would be taken against those found responsible once the inquiry report is submitted, he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister also stated that ensuring public safety remains a priority for the state government and that violations of safety regulations in critical institutions such as hospitals would not be tolerated.
Questions Over Hospital Safety Measures
The incident has once again brought attention to fire safety preparedness in healthcare facilities across Bihar. Officials are expected to review whether the hospital had adequate fire prevention systems and whether emergency protocols were followed during the crisis.
Preliminary assessments have indicated that a short circuit may have triggered the blaze. However, officials have cautioned against drawing conclusions until the investigation is completed.
Rescue Operation and Casualties
According to officials, the fire spread rapidly after breaking out, creating chaotic conditions inside the hospital premises. Several patients were evacuated safely, but the incident resulted in the deaths of multiple people.
Fire brigade teams rushed to the spot and worked for several hours to bring the blaze under control. Administrative officials also reached the site to supervise rescue and relief efforts.
Compensation Announced for Victims’ Families
The state government has announced ex-gratia assistance of Rs 4 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased victim.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary said the district administration had been directed to ensure prompt relief and provide all necessary support to affected families.
Health Minister Remains Silent
While the government has initiated an inquiry, Health Minister Nishant Kumar did not comment publicly on the incident. Journalists sought his response on multiple occasions, but he declined to answer questions related to the tragedy.
Investigation Under Way
Authorities have begun examining the sequence of events that led to the fire. Officials said the findings of the inquiry would help determine accountability and guide future measures aimed at strengthening fire safety and disaster preparedness in hospitals.
The incident has prompted renewed concern over safety standards in healthcare institutions, with attention now focused on the outcome of the government’s investigation and the steps that may follow.
