At least two people were killed and several others injured after a fire broke out at the Murshidabad Medical College and Hospital in Behrampur, West Bengal, on Saturday. Several patients were seen being escorted out, while others were feared trapped inside the building. The fire reportedly began in the male surgical ward and spread to the hospital’s paediatric, neonatal and MRI units, PTI reported.

However, Chief Medical Officer of Health S Saha said the flames were under control and “there is no need for panic”. Two fire tenders arrived at the spot, even as patients and hospital staff broke windows in an effort to escape. There were reports of several newborns being treated for smoke inhalation, and they are said to be in stable condition now.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced Rs 2 lakh as compensation for the next of the kin of the victims.