In a shocking incident in Kerala’s capital, Thiruvananthapuram, a 59-year-old man was trapped inside a hospital elevator for two harrowing days before being rescued. The incident, which occurred at the government medical college, has raised serious concerns about the safety protocols and emergency response mechanisms in place at such critical public institutions.
Ravindran Nair, a resident of Ulloor, had entered the lift in the OP Block of the hospital on Saturday, intending to go to the first floor. However, the lift malfunctioned, descending instead and failing to open its doors. Despite Nair’s desperate attempts to attract attention by shouting for help, no assistance arrived. To make matters worse, his phone was switched off, cutting off any means of communication.
The distressing situation came to light only on Monday morning, when the lift operator started the elevator for routine maintenance. Upon hearing Nair’s cries for help, the operator immediately took action to free him. According to the police, Nair was found in a state of distress but thankfully unharmed. He had been visiting the hospital for a medical checkup when the unfortunate incident occurred.
Nair’s family, worried about his sudden disappearance, had filed a missing person report with the medical college police on Sunday night. Their anxiety was palpable as they had no information on his whereabouts for over 24 hours. The eventual discovery of Nair in the elevator brought immense relief to his family but also highlighted a critical lapse in the hospital’s operational protocols.
The police have stated that an investigation is underway to determine how Nair’s predicament went unnoticed for such an extended period. The hospital administration has been asked to review their safety and emergency procedures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. The malfunction of the elevator and the lack of immediate response to Nair’s cries for help are being scrutinized as part of this review.
This incident has sparked a wider conversation about the safety standards in public hospitals and other institutions. The lack of regular checks and the apparent absence of a responsive emergency system have raised questions among the public and health professionals alike. Ensuring that safety protocols are not just in place but are also effectively implemented is crucial to preventing similar incidents in the future.
Nair’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous safety measures and prompt emergency response in public facilities. It underscores the need for regular maintenance of equipment and clear communication channels within such institutions. As the investigation continues, there is hope that this incident will lead to significant improvements in the safety protocols of public hospitals, ensuring the well-being and security of all patients and visitors.
