Patna, Bihar’s capital, witnessed a shocking domestic fire that claimed the life of a bedridden woman. The blaze, triggered by a common mosquito repellent coil, rapidly engulfed the home of an elderly paralyzed couple in Karbigahiya, leading to a fatal outcome.
It was late Friday evening when 65-year-old Malti Devi, confined to her bed due to paralysis, found herself surrounded by fire. Her husband, 75-year-old Baliram Chaudhary, similarly afflicted, raised alarms but was powerless to act. The flames originated from the balcony where Malti rested, fueled by the carelessly placed coil.
Eyewitnesses among neighbors described the chaos: smoke poured out, followed by cries for help. Baliram’s shouts drew attention, but his injuries from the heat prevented any rescue effort. The couple’s son and his family were away at the market, delaying critical aid.
Firefighters quelled the fire, but Malti had already perished. Baliram, with severe burns, is under medical care. This incident exposes the dangers of everyday items in households with immobile members, urging stricter fire safety protocols.
Community leaders have expressed condolences and are pushing for awareness campaigns on home safety for seniors. The police have registered a case, ruling it an accident, yet questions linger about preventive measures for such vulnerable families.