Two Children Dead, Dozens Fall Ill at Lucknow Rehabilitation Centre; Probe Underway

Tragedy struck a government-run rehabilitation centre for children in the Para area of Lucknow, where two children died and several others fell ill, reportedly due to food poisoning. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday evening, involved approximately 20 special needs children who were rushed to Lokbandhu Hospital after suddenly falling ill.

Dr. Rajeev Kumar Dixit, the Medical Superintendent of Lokbandhu Raj Narayan Combined Hospital, confirmed that the children arrived at the hospital severely dehydrated. Despite medical efforts, two children succumbed to their condition. Two others in critical condition were transferred to another government hospital, while the remaining 16 children have shown signs of recovery.

In response to the incident, local authorities have launched an investigation. The Lucknow District Magistrate has set up a committee to investigate the cause of the suspected food poisoning, and officials from the Health and Food Safety Departments have visited the hospital and questioned the affected children. Food samples have also been taken from the rehabilitation centre for analysis. The centre, which houses 147 children, primarily orphans and those with mental disabilities, is under scrutiny, and further action will be taken following the investigation’s findings.