Chennai (Tamil Nadu): Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian on Monday conducted an inspection of the special burn ward at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital, reporting that 89 patients had been admitted since Sunday, amid ongoing Diwali celebrations.

Burn ward admissions and surgeries

Speaking to the media, Subramanian said, “We have formed a special burn ward in Kilpauk Medical College Hospital. As of now, 89 injured patients have come since yesterday, of whom 48 are seriously injured and others have been discharged. Among the seriously injured, eight patients will undergo surgery.”

The minister highlighted the importance of public safety during the festival, urging citizens to burst crackers in the open and wear cotton clothes to reduce burn injuries. He added, “I appeal to people to burst crackers in the open, wearing cotton and not silk or nylon clothes.”

Monsoon preparedness and hospital safety

Apart from Diwali-related precautions, Subramanian reviewed the Tamil Nadu health department’s preparedness for the Northeast monsoon. Meetings were organised to ensure preventive measures in hospitals prone to waterlogging during heavy rains last year.

“Meetings held on precautionary measures. Wherever waterlogging occurred due to heavy rains in health centres and hospitals last year, we have monitored and taken steps this year,” he said.

Subramanian noted specific interventions at key hospitals:

  • Royapettah Hospital: Last year, waterlogging occurred due to metro construction. This year, preventive measures ensured no waterlogging.
  • Thoothukudi Government Medical College Hospital: Sandbags were placed to prevent water entry during heavy rains, successfully avoiding flooding this year.

Diwali celebrations at hospitals

On the occasion of Diwali, the Health Minister also distributed sweets to doctors and healthcare staff at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital, appreciating their continued efforts in managing patient care during the festival.

He reiterated that public cooperation in following safety measures, such as bursting crackers in open spaces and using appropriate clothing, is vital to prevent burn injuries during festive celebrations.

Conclusion

The Tamil Nadu government continues to emphasise festival safety and hospital preparedness while maintaining vigilance during the monsoon season. Authorities hope public adherence to safety guidelines will reduce accidents and ensure smooth operations in hospitals across the state.