Diwali Disaster: Safdarjung Hospital Records 135 Burn Cases
Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi saw a surge of 135 burn cases during Diwali, with many injuries caused by firecrackers.
While the city celebrated the festival of lights, the emergency wards of Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi became a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with the festivities. The hospital reported a total of Safdarjung Hospital burn cases reaching 135 over the period of November 7 and 8, with the vast majority of injuries directly linked to Diwali celebrations.
The Numbers Behind the Surge
Out of the 135 patients treated, 129 cases were a direct result of Diwali activities. The breakdown of these injuries reveals a dangerous trend: firecrackers were the primary culprit, accounting for 129 incidents, while oil lamps were responsible for 6 cases. The influx of patients peaked on November 8, which saw the highest number of admissions during the two-day window.
The medical toll was significant, with 7 patients requiring surgical interventions to treat their wounds. The hospital's outpatient department (OPD) also saw a high volume of young victims, treating 35 children, one of whom was severely injured enough to require full hospital admission.
Hospital Readiness and Response
Anticipating the seasonal spike in accidents, the Safdarjung Hospital administration had implemented a rigorous emergency plan. To ensure no patient was turned away, the facility increased its burn casualty capacity by reserving 20 dedicated beds specifically for Diwali-related injuries.
To maintain a high standard of care during the rush, the hospital management took the following steps:
- Canceled leave for all medical staff to ensure maximum manpower.
- Deployed a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including experts in plastic surgery and general surgery.
- Ensured the constant availability of ophthalmologists and anesthesia specialists to handle complex injuries.
As the celebrations wound down, 7 patients remained hospitalized for ongoing treatment and recovery.
A Tragic Loss in Narela
Amidst the high volume of treatable injuries, the festive period was marred by a devastating tragedy. In the Narela area of Delhi, a 10-year-old child lost their life after a firecracker exploded, highlighting the lethal potential of these pyrotechnics despite safety warnings.