Gas Leak at Jaipur Coaching Centre Causes Panic and Protests
A suspected gas leak at the Utkarsh Coaching Centre in Gopalpur, Jaipur, led to alarming scenes on Sunday evening, December 15\. Reports indicate that several students fainted and required hospital treatment.
Initial accounts suggested that around a dozen students were affected. However, Jaipur MP Manju Sharma, who visited the site, later clarified that only four to five students experienced serious issues. She promised protesters that a thorough investigation would take place to prevent future incidents.
The source of the fumes remains unknown, causing panic among the 350 students present during the incident. This led to protests outside the coaching centre, with demonstrators calling for its closure and a comprehensive investigation.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Yogesh Srivastav noted that the fumes could have originated from a gas leak, toxic gutter fumes, or smoke from a nearby kitchen. He mentioned that the sealed environment, with closed windows and doors, may have worsened the situation, leading to suffocation.
Five students were taken to Somani Hospital, while two others were admitted to Metro Mass Hospital. Fortunately, all students are reported to be safe.
Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Rajesh Jakhar confirmed the incident and stated that officials are closely monitoring the situation. He mentioned that some girls fainted and were sent for medical check-ups. Jakhar assured that the students' demands would be communicated to higher authorities.
A committee has been established to investigate the incident, and officials have vowed to hold those responsible accountable.