New Delhi, 16 December 2024: Ten students from a coaching institute in Mahesh Nagar, Jaipur, were rushed to various hospitals on Sunday evening following a suspected gas leak that left them fainting, coughing, and struggling to breathe. The incident caused widespread panic among students and parents, sparking demands for immediate safety measures in educational institutions.
Students Affected by Gas Leak Near Coaching Institute
The gas leak reportedly originated from a nearby drain, although authorities are also investigating smoke emissions from a kitchen located on the terrace of the building. Students at the coaching center began experiencing severe headaches, coughing fits, and difficulty breathing before fainting. Seven of the affected students were treated at a private hospital, while the others were admitted to different medical facilities.
Dr. Anil Kumar, a physician at one of the hospitals, confirmed that the students showed symptoms of suffocation and respiratory distress but reassured that all were now in stable condition. “The timely response by the staff and emergency services helped prevent a more severe outcome,” Dr. Kumar noted.
Source of Gas Leak Under Investigation
Preliminary investigations suggest the gas leak likely originated from the drainage system near the institute. However, authorities are not ruling out other possibilities, such as smoke from the building’s terrace kitchen. Food poisoning, initially considered as a potential cause, has been ruled out.
Police officials have stated that determining the exact cause of the gas leak is a priority. “We are conducting a detailed probe to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents in the future,” said an officer on the scene.
Protests and Demands for Safety Measures
The incident has sparked protests outside the coaching center, with parents and local residents demanding stricter safety protocols for educational institutions. Protesters criticized the management for negligence and highlighted the lack of proper safety standards in the area.
“This is unacceptable. How can our children be exposed to such hazards in a place meant for their education and safety?” asked one of the protesting parents. Calls for better regulations, regular inspections, and emergency preparedness have grown louder as the community comes to terms with the near-tragic event.
Coaching Centre Responds to Allegations
The coaching center management issued a statement expressing concern for the affected students and assuring cooperation with the investigation. They have promised to implement additional safety measures and conduct a thorough review of the building’s infrastructure to prevent future occurrences.
However, many parents remain skeptical, demanding a more transparent investigation and concrete actions to ensure student safety.
Authorities Stress Need for Adhering to Safety Standards
The Jaipur police and municipal authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, particularly in high-density educational hubs like Mahesh Nagar. They are also exploring ways to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to detect hazards in advance.
“We must ensure that coaching centers and similar establishments comply with safety protocols to avoid such incidents,” said a senior municipal officer. “Negligence in maintaining infrastructure can lead to catastrophic consequences.”
Recovery and Future Precautions
While all 10 students are reportedly recovering well, the incident has raised serious concerns about safety measures in educational institutions. Parents and authorities are urging for more proactive steps to ensure such lapses do not recur.
This gas leak incident is a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and safety in places frequented by children and young adults. It underscores the urgency of implementing robust safety regulations and ensuring accountability for negligence to protect the lives of students.
