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Three newborns killed in hospital fire at Indian medical facility

A fire that broke out on the third floor of a women's hospital in India's Amravati district claimed the lives of three newborn babies. Authorities believe an electrical short circuit in a ventilator sparked the blaze.

LSN Malaysia · 24 August 2026

Three newborns killed in hospital fire at Indian medical facility

Three newborn infants perished in a fire that erupted at a women's hospital in Amravati district, India, on Tuesday. The blaze broke out on the third floor of the facility, where the infants were being treated in the neonatal ward.

Investigators determined that an electrical short circuit in a ventilator apparatus triggered the fire. Hospital staff worked to evacuate patients and contain the flames, but the three newborns could not be saved. Several other patients and staff members were safely evacuated from the affected floor.

The incident has reignited concerns about fire safety protocols and equipment maintenance standards at medical facilities across India. Hospital administrators have pledged to conduct a comprehensive review of all electrical systems and emergency procedures. Local authorities have launched a formal investigation into the incident and are examining whether safety regulations were being followed at the facility.

The tragedy underscores ongoing challenges faced by healthcare institutions in India regarding infrastructure upkeep and emergency preparedness, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.