Gumla newborn unit malfunctions, 28 critically ill infants urgently shifted to Ranchi

A technical fault in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) at Gumla Sadar Hospital on Tuesday led to the emergency referral of 28 newborns to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi. The issue arose when the SNCU’s warmer machines stopped functioning due to a disruption in electric current, halting essential treatment for premature and low birth weight infants.

According to pediatric specialist Dr. Rudra Kumar, “The SNCU handles premature and low birth weight babies with the help of specific medical devices. These include oxygen support, phototherapy, and devices needed for treating sepsis. Due to disruption in electricity supply, the devices could not operate, making it necessary to refer the children immediately.”

Hospital officials began transferring the babies in phases. By around 7:30 PM on Tuesday, 14 infants had been sent to Ranchi via ambulance. The remaining 14 were referred later in the night. All 28 were in need of device-assisted care, and the referral was made on an emergency basis to avoid risk from non-functional infrastructure.

Civil Surgeon Dr. Shambhunath Chaudhary stated, “Due to disruption in the electric supply, the devices in the SNCU stopped working. To protect the lives of the children, referral was essential. The matter has been communicated to the concerned engineer, and repairs are scheduled to be carried out on Wednesday morning.” He confirmed that the SNCU will remain closed until further notice.

Parents expressed concern over the situation. Shivam Kumar, father of one of the newborns, said, “My child was born on Tuesday and kept in the SNCU. In the evening, we were informed that the baby must be taken to Ranchi due to a technical problem.” Local social worker Shishir Kumar Gupta urged hospital management to repair the SNCU urgently, stating that timely access to such care is essential given the daily births at the facility.