Shocking Findings from Jaipur Hospital Fire Investigation
The investigation into the tragic fire at Jaipur's SMS Hospital has revealed alarming negligence and safety failures. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of six patients, highlights serious lapses in hospital protocols and staff responsibilities. Key findings indicate that the fire started in a storage area filled with flammable materials, and despite alarms and smoke, staff failed to act promptly. Most patients were rescued by their relatives, while hospital staff were seen fleeing the scene. This report raises critical questions about patient safety and emergency preparedness in healthcare facilities.
| Feb 26, 2026, 12:33 IST
Investigation Reveals Alarming Details of the SMS Hospital Fire
A recent investigation into the devastating fire at the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital trauma center in Jaipur has unveiled shocking revelations. The tragic incident occurred late on the night of October 5, 2025, resulting in the deaths of six patients in ICU-2 due to the blaze. The report from the inquiry committee, released four months later in February 2026, highlights severe negligence, a complete failure of safety protocols, and a troubling tendency among staff to evade responsibility.
Key Findings from the Investigation Report:
- The fire originated in a storage room containing flammable materials such as medications, cotton-gauze, and spirits. This storage area was initially part of a 12-bed ICU but had been converted into a storage space adjacent to patient beds, posing a significant risk.
- Family members of the patients were the first to report the fire around 11:30 PM, suspecting a short circuit. Despite multiple alerts, the staff failed to take any action. Even as smoke began to rise, there was no response from the system.
- The storage room was locked. Even after smoke was detected, the staff spent nearly 30 minutes searching for the key. The in-charge, Deendayal Agarwal, and the second in charge, Kamal Kishore Gupta, were unaware of the key's location. The inquiry committee also could not locate the key.
- CCTV footage revealed that nursing officer Uday Singh instructed a ward boy to break the lock but fled the ICU with his black bag. Other staff members also abandoned their posts while patients were in danger.
- Most patients were rescued by their relatives; for instance, one woman was dragged out by her husband, while another was carried to safety. The staff did not assist and were seen fleeing the scene.
- Although the ICU was equipped with fire alarms and smoke detectors, the alarm did not activate that night. The fire fighting system had never been properly inspected, with only superficial checks of external pressure points conducted.
- The report concludes that while the fire may have started due to a short circuit, the primary causes were negligence, disorganization, evasion of responsibility, and a complete lack of safety measures. Warnings were ignored, and decisions were postponed.