10 newborn babies die in major fire at hospital in India

Ten newborns were killed in a massive fire at the Bhandara District General Hospital in Indian state of Maharashtra. The fire broke out around 2 am at the Sick Newborn Care Unit of the hospital. Seven other infants who were admitted in the unit were however rescued.

The cause of the fire was not known immediately but the hospital administration said an electrical short-circuit could be the possible reason, reports India Today.

Speaking to India Today TV, Civil Surgeon of Bhandara District General Hospital, Dr Pramod Khandate said 17 children were admitted to the Sick Newborn Care Unit.

"In the wee hours of Saturday, a nurse notice smoke emanating from this ward and altered doctors. The hospital staff tried their best to save the children. Ten children have died died, seven are safe."

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray spoke to state health minister Rajesh Tope as well as District Collector and Superintendent of Police of Bhandara district over the fire tragedy. The chief minister has also ordered a probe into the matter.