Explosion in Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital campus in Bolangir; no casualties reported

The patients, their relatives and visitors had a close shave as an explosion reportedly caused by a short circuit occurred at Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital (BBMCH) in Bolangir on Friday night.  

As per reports, a sparking explosion occurred on the electric pole in front of the surgery ward of the hospital. Because of this, the entire hospital plunged into the darkness for the whole night. 

The power outage that lasted for over 24 hours disrupted the activities in the hospital, compelling medical staff to rely on mobile phone lights to continue their work in the surgery ward and other critical areas.

Fortunately, nothing bad happened to the patients or their attendants. 

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As if the power outage was not enough, the hospital's backup generator was also inoperative at the time of the incident. Consequently, the outdoor ticket counter was forced to be closed, leading to further disruption of services for incoming patients.

This incident underscores the importance of ensuring electrical safety and maintaining emergency power systems in healthcare facilities to prevent such occurrences in the future.

“Yesterday, the entire hospital was in darkness. We immediately informed the GED. They restored the power supply to the MCH building. Since this morning, they have been working to restore the complete power supply.  However, power is yet to be restored to dialysis centre, ENT department and Male and Female medicine wards. No doubt, we are facing difficulties. No OT can be done as of now. If any such situation arises, we will refer the patient to somewhere else,” said Manasi Panda, hospital superintendent.