Muzaffarpur, Bihar — A devastating fire broke out in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Prasad Hospital, a private medical facility in Muzaffarpur, early on June 4, 2026, claiming the lives of multiple patients and injuring others. The fire started around 3:55 am on the fifth floor, triggering a major rescue operation amid thick smoke and chaos.

Authorities have confirmed at least four fatalities, while dozens of patients were evacuated to nearby hospitals. District Magistrate Subrat Kumar Sen stated there were 13–15 patients in the ICU and several more in the CCU when the fire erupted. The presence of ventilator-dependent patients made evacuation especially challenging.

Firefighters arrived promptly and managed to bring the blaze under control. Around 20 patients were rescued, though the conditions of several injured patients remain unclear. Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit, but a full investigation is underway to verify the cause and check for any lapses in hospital safety measures.

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed grief over the tragedy, extended condolences to families, and announced ₹4 lakh compensation for each deceased patient. The local administration has ensured nearby district hospitals are prepared to treat the injured and support affected families.

This incident raises serious concerns about fire safety compliance in private hospitals, particularly in critical care areas where patients cannot evacuate independently. Officials have promised a thorough inquiry, and necessary actions will follow based on the findings.