Major Accident Chapter 20

The days flew by, and soon, January 10th arrived. The university campus was once again bustling with activity as students returned from their holidays. The corridors echoed with chatter and laughter, and the once silent classrooms filled with eager minds ready to resume their studies. Vijay sat in his office, buried in paperwork, ensuring everything was in order for the new term. 

Suddenly, there was a knock at his door. Vijay looked up to see a faculty member standing there, looking distressed. "Sir, there's been a major accident on campus," the faculty member said, urgency in his voice.

Vijay's heart sank. "What happened?" he asked, setting his documents aside.

"A boy named Santu, from a small village in Gujarat, fell from the terrace of the four-story building. His hand and leg bones are fractured. He's been taken to the hospital, and they're performing emergency surgery."

Without a second thought, Vijay stood up and hurried out of his office. He made his way to the garage, got into his car, and sped towards the hospital. His mind raced with concern for the student. How could such an accident have happened? Was there a lapse in safety protocols?

Arriving at the hospital, Vijay quickly found Santu's class teacher, who was waiting anxiously in the lobby. "How did this happen?" Vijay asked, trying to keep his voice calm despite the worry gnawing at him.

The teacher, visibly shaken, explained, "Santu was on the terrace, likely enjoying the view. It's a common spot for students to relax. We suspect he might have leaned over the railing too far and lost his balance. The terrace is usually safe, but accidents happen."

Vijay felt a pang of guilt. He had always emphasized the importance of safety on campus, but incidents like these served as harsh reminders that there was always room for improvement. "How is he now?" Vijay asked, looking towards the operation theater.

"The doctors are doing their best. They said the surgery is complicated but they are hopeful," the teacher replied.

Vijay nodded, his face set with determination. "We'll wait here. We need to ensure that Santu gets the best care possible."

As the hours dragged on, Vijay sat in the hospital lobby, his mind churning with thoughts. He thought about Santu's family, who would soon receive the frightening news about their son's accident. He thought about the other students on campus and how this incident would affect them. Most of all, he thought about what measures needed to be implemented to prevent such accidents in the future.

Finally, a surgeon emerged from the operating room. Vijay and the class teacher stood up immediately, their faces tense with anticipation. "How is he, doctor?" Vijay asked.

The surgeon looked tired but offered a reassuring smile. "The surgery went well. Santu's injuries were severe, but we managed to stabilize him. He'll need extensive rehabilitation, but he should recover fully in time."

Vijay felt a wave of relief wash over him. "Thank you, doctor," he said earnestly. "Can I see him?"

"He's still under anesthesia and will be in recovery for a while, but you can see him briefly," the doctor replied.

Vijay followed the doctor into the recovery room. Seeing Santu lying there, pale and bandaged, brought a lump to his throat. He thought of Santu's parents and how worried they must be. Vijay resolved to personally ensure that Santu received the best care possible and that his family was supported during this difficult time.

Returning to the lobby, Vijay turned to the class teacher. "We need to inform Santu's parents and ensure they get here as soon as possible. The university will cover all their travel and accommodation expenses."

The teacher nodded, grateful for Vijay's support. "I'll handle it, sir."

Vijay spent the rest of the day at the hospital, coordinating with the medical staff and ensuring everything was in place for Santu's recovery. He also took time to talk to the hospital administrators about any additional care Santu might need once he was discharged.

Back at the university, the news of the accident had spread, and there was an atmosphere of concern among the students and faculty. Vijay made it a priority to address the university community. He organized a meeting in the main auditorium, where he spoke about the accident and the steps being taken to prevent such incidents in the future.

"We are all deeply concerned about Santu and his recovery," Vijay began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Our primary goal is to ensure his health and well-being. I assure you that we will do everything in our power to support him and his family during this time."

He went on to explain the measures that would be implemented to enhance safety on campus. This included installing higher railings on terraces, increasing the number of safety patrols, and organizing mandatory safety briefings for all students. "Your safety is our utmost priority," Vijay emphasized. "We want you to feel secure and cared for while you pursue your education here."

The students and faculty listened attentively, appreciating Vijay's transparency and dedication to their well-being. It was clear that he was deeply committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone at the university.

Over the next few days, Vijay continued to monitor Santu's progress closely. He visited the hospital regularly, speaking with the doctors and offering support to Santu's family. He also kept the university community updated on Santu's condition, ensuring that everyone felt informed and reassured.

Meanwhile, the implementation of the new safety measures began in earnest. Construction crews worked swiftly to install higher railings on all terraces and balconies. Security personnel were briefed on their increased patrol responsibilities, and safety workshops were scheduled for the students.

Through it all, Vijay remained focused and determined. The incident had been a wake-up call, reminding him of the immense responsibility he held as the founder and leader of the university. He knew that ensuring the safety and well-being of his students was paramount, and he was committed to doing whatever it took to uphold that responsibility.

As January progressed, the campus slowly returned to its usual rhythm. Classes resumed, and the students settled back into their routines. There was still a palpable sense of caution in the air, but the community felt stronger and more united than ever.

One evening, as Vijay was walking back to his office after a long day, he received a call from the hospital. It was Santu's doctor, with an update on his condition. "Mr. Vijay, I'm happy to inform you that Santu is recovering well. He'll need some time and physiotherapy, but his prognosis is very good."

A smile spread across Vijay's face. "Thank you, doctor. That's wonderful news."

After ending the call, Vijay took a moment to reflect. The past few weeks had been challenging, but they had also been a testament to the resilience and strength of the university community. They had faced a difficult situation head-on and emerged stronger for it.

As he continued his walk, Vijay felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was more determined than ever to make the university a place where students could thrive, knowing they were safe and supported. It was a mission he was proud to lead, and he looked forward to the future with optimism and resolve.