Baramulla: A child allegedly fell into an open manhole inside the premises of Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla on Monday and escaped with minor injuries after being rescued by bystanders, triggering concerns over safety arrangements at the hospital.
According to eyewitnesses, the child accidentally stepped into the uncovered manhole while moving through the hospital premises. People present at the spot immediately rescued the child, averting a major tragedy.
The incident sparked concern among patients, attendants and visitors, who alleged that damaged and uncovered drains and manholes in the hospital posed a serious risk to public safety.
“This could have turned into a fatal accident. It is sheer negligence on the part of the authorities. The administration should fix responsibility before another innocent life is lost,” the child’s mother said.
Visitors alleged that repeated complaints regarding uncovered manholes and damaged drains had gone unaddressed by the hospital authorities.
The incident has renewed concerns over safety measures at the medical college, with people demanding an immediate inspection of the hospital premises, proper covering of all open manholes and action against those responsible for the alleged lapse.
An official response from the GMC Baramulla administration was not immediately available.
