In a haunting night for India's Uttar Pradesh capital, Lucknow, a ferocious fire roared through Lok Bandhu Hospital. The fire, which sparked in the female ward and intensive care unit (ICU) on the second floor, caused thick smoke to envelop the entire floor. However, thanks to the swift actions of the fire brigade, dexterous hospital staff, and effective administrative management, 200 patients were promptly evacuated and transferred to another medical facility. Gripping footage from the scene highlights the harrowing yet heroic rescue efforts that saved countless lives.
Source: aajtak
Chief Fire Officer Mangesh Kumar of the Lucknow Fire Brigade reported receiving the emergency call at 9:44 PM. The team arrived promptly to find a scene of chaos, with terrified individuals fleeing or peering from windows, contemplating a hazardous escape. Others scrambled down staircases in frantic bids to escape the engulfing threat.
Source: aajtak
Further Read: VIDEO: The Heart-racing Fire at Lok Bandhu Hospital, Lucknow
Upon assessing the dire state of affairs and the potential for casualties from window jumps, the rescue team divided into specialized groups. Some crews safely guided individuals down stairways, while others utilized ropes for evacuation. Meanwhile, fire suppression efforts continued, achieving complete containment within a mere 30 minutes.
Source: aajtak
Rescue Efforts Intensify with Window Breaks
As rescue operations continued, Mangesh Kumar noted that glass at the site was shattered to facilitate cross-ventilation, preventing suffocation and expediting the evacuation. Though smoke invaded all floors, the blaze was confined to the second floor, quelling fears of a widespread outbreak.
District Magistrate Vishak G. Aiyar stated, "Upon learning of the situation at Lok Bandhu Hospital, we dispatched a team from the fire and rescue department. The affected ICU, women's ward, and another unit were quickly evacuated, transferring patients to three different hospitals. The situation now remains under control."
Source: aajtak
Sequential Patient Rescues Underway
The collective efforts of fire brigade personnel, police officers, and hospital staff facilitated a sequential rescue of patients. Video evidence vividly showcases individuals being transitioned via ventilator support and swiftly transported to hospitals by ambulances, ensuring their safety.
