Families reel in shock

Outside the ICU of Manipal Hospital where 19 patients have been admitted, there were hordes of friends and relatives waiting to know more details about their loved ones. Families who lived in others towns and cities and the crowd largely consisted of friends.
Usha, the guardian of Ajith Menon, who was in the ICU, said he had recently come back from the US after completing his MBA and joined a company just two months ago.“I got information about the incident around 6.30 pm. His family in Mumbai has been informed and we’re waiting for them,” she added.
Deepak, roommate of Chandan who is in the ICU, said he got to know about it from TV reports. “His parents are from North Karnataka and have been informed and on their way,” he said. Outside the mortuary, the scene was one of utter shock. Most families and friends of victims were from other cities.
K P Prakash, fire brigade personnel, rescued people from the seventh floor. He and his colleagues were treated for suffocation as they didn’t have any proper equipment during the rescue. Prakash became unconscious after he rescued the people. His colleague is suffering from respiratory problems and burn injuries on the neck.
Rani, an attender in Equis on the seventh floor, is battling for life in the ICU and her condition is “critical”. She has three children. Her family was stunned when they were informed about it. Most people sustained burn injuries and bone factures, especially those who tried to jump off the building.
toiblr.reporter@timesgroup.com