At least six people, including a child, lost their lives in a massive fire that broke out at City Hospital, an orthopedic care facility on Trichy Road in Dindigul, on Thursday night. The blaze, which began around 9 PM in the reception area on the ground floor, quickly spread throughout the building, engulfing multiple floors in flames and smoke.
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Emergency responders, including fire department personnel, police, and ambulances, rushed to the scene to evacuate patients and contain the fire. Despite their efforts, six individuals—Suruli (50), Subbulakshmi (45), Mariammal (50), Mani Murugan (28), Rajasekar (35), and a child—succumbed to what initial reports suggest was suffocation caused by the smoke.
At least 29 patients, most receiving orthopedic care, were rescued and transported to nearby government hospitals. Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Supriya Sahu confirmed that doctors are closely monitoring their condition. District Collector MN Poongodi stated that rescue and evacuation efforts were swift, with six people saved from a malfunctioning lift despite suffering from smoke inhalation. “The final surveys and checks are underway,” she added.
Dindigul District Superintendent of Police A Pradeep announced that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Rural Development Minister I Periyasamy visited the injured patients and assured them of government support.
Further rescue and recovery operations remain in progress as authorities work to ensure the safety of all involved.
