A massive fire broke out at Panacea Hospital‘s ICU ward in Dehradun on May 20, triggering panic and chaos inside the medical facility. According to preliminary information, the fire is suspected to have started after an air conditioner allegedly exploded inside the hospital.
Soon after the incident, thick smoke engulfed the hospital premises, forcing authorities and hospital staff to evacuate patients immediately. Several patients were shifted to nearby hospitals through ambulances, while some injured persons suffering from burn injuries were referred to Kailash Hospital for treatment.
Eyewitnesses said smoke rapidly spread across the building, creating breathing difficulties for admitted patients and attendants. Hospital staff, along with local residents, launched a swift rescue operation and helped move patients out of the wards to safety.
Following the incident, the entire hospital premises were evacuated.
Teams from the fire department, police, and district administration rushed to the spot after receiving information about the blaze. Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control after extensive efforts.
Officials said the situation is currently under control, while the exact cause of the fire is being investigated. The fire department stated that a detailed probe has been initiated to determine the circumstances leading to the incident.