Jalandhar Hospital Reports Three Deaths Amid Technical Fault in Oxygen Supply System

Three patients died at the trauma centre of Jalandhar Civil Hospital. All of them were on ventilator support. Their families claimed a disruption in the oxygen supply system led to the deaths.

According to the families, the central oxygen supply stopped working. They said there was no oxygen flow for several minutes. Some alleged that hospital staff delayed switching to backup cylinders.

Hospital Acknowledges Fault in Oxygen Plant

The hospital admitted there was a technical fault in the oxygen system. Officials said an oil leak caused a temporary drop in oxygen pressure. They claimed the issue was resolved quickly using emergency cylinders.

Dr. Raj Kumar Baddhan, the hospital’s medical superintendent, confirmed the fault but denied full oxygen loss. He stated that oxygen supply never stopped completely and backup systems were activated on time. He also said the patients were already in very critical condition.

Hospital authorities formed an inquiry committee to look into the incident. A detailed report will be submitted soon. Officials said strict action will follow if any negligence is found.

Punjab Health Minister sent a special team to assess the situation. The Deputy Commissioner also visited the hospital. Both assured that the matter will be investigated fairly.

The hospital continued normal operations, but families of other patients expressed concern. Many demanded better safety checks and emergency planning.

Civil society groups also reacted to the incident. They urged the government to conduct regular audits of hospital oxygen plants. Experts said even a short disruption in oxygen flow can turn fatal, especially in critical care units.

Hospital Awaits Inquiry Report

This incident is not the first of its kind. In the past, other hospitals across India have seen similar tragedies linked to oxygen failures, especially during the COVID-19 crisis. These recurring issues point to a need for better equipment, stronger emergency response systems, and accountability.

For now, the Jalandhar Civil Hospital awaits the committee’s findings. Families of the deceased await answers. The state government has promised action, but the public remains watchful.