Seven killed in fire at Tamil Nadu hospital

A fire erupted at an orthopedic hospital in Dindigul of Tamil Nadu, India, claiming the lives of at least seven people, including a child and two women. Additionally, 20 others were injured, according to local authorities who reported the incident on Thursday (December 12).

As reported by The Times of India, the fire began in the reception area on the ground floor and rapidly spread to other levels of the hospital. The cause of the fire is suspected to be a short circuit.

Fire service officials stated that the victims died mainly due to the thick smoke that spread throughout the hospital during the fire.

At least 50 ambulances were deployed to transfer patients to other hospitals. Around 30 patients were admitted to the Dindigul government hospital for treatment.

Firefighters were able to control the fire after nearly an hour of effort. Rescue operations are still ongoing to locate and assist those trapped inside the hospital.