Saturday, March 29, 2025
Tragic Fire at Jaipur’s SMS Hospital ICU Claims Six Lives, Probe Ordered
Jaipur, Oct 6, 2025 – A devastating fire broke out early Monday morning at the Trauma Centre ICU of Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur, leaving six patients dead and five others critically injured. The incident, caused by a suspected short circuit, has raised serious concerns about hospital safety protocols.
Eyewitnesses said flames and thick toxic smoke quickly engulfed the ICU ward, trapping several patients. Hospital staff rushed into action, attempting to shift patients to safer areas on stretchers and trolleys. Despite their efforts, six patients — including two women and four men — could not be saved. Most of the victims were already in a coma, which made rescue operations even more difficult.
Dr. Anurag Dhakad, in charge of the trauma centre, confirmed that 24 patients were admitted at the time of the fire, 11 of them in the Trauma ICU. “The fire began due to a short circuit and spread rapidly. Toxic smoke filled the ward, worsening the situation. Our team, nursing staff, and ward boys acted swiftly, but six patients succumbed despite all efforts. Five others remain in critical condition,” he said.
The deceased have been sent for post-mortem examinations after being shifted to the mortuary. Hospital officials also confirmed that the remaining patients were immediately evacuated to other wards to ensure their safety.
Jaipur Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph said an FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) team has been deployed to investigate the exact cause of the fire. “Initial findings point to a short circuit, but the final cause will only be confirmed after forensic analysis. Six deaths have been officially confirmed. An inquiry committee has also been constituted to probe the incident,” he added.
The tragedy has sparked outrage among patients’ families and local residents, many of whom are demanding accountability from the hospital administration. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma visited the hospital premises to take stock of the situation.
The shocking incident has cast a spotlight on fire safety standards in one of the state’s largest government hospitals, with many calling for stricter safety audits and immediate reforms to prevent such disasters in the future.
