BDD Chawl fire: Five-year-old recovers 80 days after cylinder blast killed family

Boy who lost parents to be discharged today and will live with his grandparents; mayor promises help

Five-year-old Vishnu Puri flashed a wide grin as Mayor Kishori Pednekar shook his hand at Kasturba Hospital on Saturday. After spending nearly two-and-a-half months at the civic-run facility following a cylinder blast that ravaged his home and wiped out his family, the boy is expected to be discharged today. The mayor has promised financial help for the child.

Vishnu, his father Anand Puri, mother Vidya and five-month-old brother Mangesh were sleeping in their home at BDD Chawl No. 3 when the mishap occurred at 6 am on November 30. The blast also triggered a fire. The injured were first taken to BYL Nair Hospital. The infant died the same day, while Anand succumbed to burns and injuries on December 1. Vishnu and Vidya were shifted to Kasturba, but the mother, who had sustained 50 to 60 per cent burns, could not be saved. She died five days later.

Mayor Kishori Pednekar visits the boy at Kasturba hospital on Sunday

It took over two-and-a-half months for Vishnu to recover, said officials. After visiting the boy, Pednekar said Shiv Sena was prepared to adopt the child as he is the lone survivor. “But the child’s maternal uncle and grandfather said they are ready to take care of him. We will give financial assistance for the child,” she said. The mayor also praised the staff of Kasturba hospital for taking good care of the child. 

The tragedy had come into focus after a video went viral where the injured were seen being neglected by the staff at Nair hospital. Following a preliminary enquiry, three employees, including a doctor and a nurse, were suspended. Later, an external committee of four doctors appointed by the BMC supported the findings of the preliminary enquiry.

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