In a shocking turn of events, a section of the female surgical ward’s roof at Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Teaching Hospital in Gujrat collapsed, leading to two fatalities and leaving 16 individuals injured. The victims included patients and hospital staff who were trapped under the debris. The incident has raised severe concerns about the hospital’s safety protocols, particularly since renovation work was reportedly underway at the time. As the dust settled, the magnitude of the disaster became apparent. A total of 18 individuals, including hospital employees, female patients, and others seeking medical attention, were trapped beneath the debris. Among the deceased were Aswad Bibi and Afzal, whose loss has left the community in mourning and anger. The incident has sparked questions about potential negligence, prompting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. Gujrat’s Deputy Commissioner, Safdar Hussain, has vowed to hold those responsible for any safety lapses or negligence accountable. He has assured that strict measures will be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future. Dr. Asif Mehmood, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent, stated that all patients were safely evacuated. He attributed the minor damage to the collapse of the ceiling in the corridor between the female surgical wards. City Circle DSP Asad Ishaaq linked the collapse to negligence by the contractor overseeing the renovation works. He explained that while the ground floor was unoccupied, patients were being treated on the first floor when the roof and a side wall collapsed. Meanwhile, the C&W Department has mobilized to assess the structural integrity of the hospital premises as rescue efforts continue. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has also taken notice of the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability. She has directed the health secretary to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident and submit a comprehensive report, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the need for those responsible to be held accountable.
Gujrat Hospital Roof Collapse: Two Dead, 16 Injured Amidst Renovation Work
