BHUBANESWAR: The promptness and presence of mind of staff at a hospital in Bhubaneswar saved 22 newborns from the onslaught of Fani, which caused massive destruction in the coastal areas of the state after it made landfall on May 3.

A statement released by the state's health department said how those present on duty at the Capital Hospital shielded the babies and shifted them to safety as the ceiling over them crackled, unable to take the cyclone's impact.

"At about 12.30 noon on May 3, the SNCU (sick and newborn care unit) of Capital Hospital was ravaged badly due to very strong winds. The ceiling and the electric fittings and gadgets started cracking and falling down. At that time, a total of 22 babies were admitted in the SNCU. Seven staff nurses, two attendants along with two medical officers were present on duty at that time," read the release.