Tragic Fire at Odisha Hospital Claims Lives of Ten Patients
Devastating Fire Breaks Out at SCB Medical College
In the early hours of Monday, around 3:00 AM, a severe fire erupted at the Trauma Care Center of the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Odisha. This unfortunate incident has resulted in the deaths of ten individuals, primarily patients who were in the Trauma Care ICU. During the rescue operations, eleven hospital staff members suffered burns.
Officials reported that the fire broke out in the first floor of the Trauma Care department at the government-run SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. Most of the deceased were patients admitted to the ICU.
Patients Safely Evacuated
As soon as the fire ignited, the hospital's fire safety system was activated, prompting the hospital's fire department to take immediate action. Three fire engines were dispatched to the scene to combat the blaze. Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames. Amid the chaos, family members of patients panicked and rushed around the hospital.
Given the circumstances, fire service officials collaborated with hospital staff, police, and relatives to rescue patients receiving treatment in the ICU, transferring them to other departments within the SCB hospital, a key medical facility in Odisha. Critically ill patients were moved to the 'New Medicine ICU.'
Chief Minister Visits the Scene
Upon learning of the incident, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accompanied by Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, promptly arrived at the hospital to assess the situation. They reviewed the circumstances and met with patients currently receiving care.
Speaking to the media, the Chief Minister indicated that the fire was likely caused by a short circuit, affecting the Trauma Care ICU and adjacent wards. Majhi stated, "A total of 23 patients have been shifted to other departments. Seven critically ill patients died during the transfer to other ICUs and wards, while three others passed away later."
Compensation Announced for Victims' Families
He added, "I have instructed the relevant authorities to ensure proper treatment for the injured patients." The Chief Minister also announced a compensation of 2.5 million rupees for the families of each deceased individual.
Several senior administrative officials, including the health secretary, the district collector of Cuttack, and the DCP, are currently present at the site. The administration is rapidly conducting relief and rescue operations.
Cause of the Fire Still Under Investigation
The exact cause of the fire remains unclear, and further information about the incident is awaited. This tragic event has instilled fear in the local community and raised concerns regarding the hospital's safety protocols.
Condolences from President and Prime Minister
President Droupadi Murmu expressed her sorrow over the loss of life in the hospital fire in Odisha and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured. In a post on X, she stated, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of life in the tragic incident at a hospital in Cuttack, Odisha. My heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. I wish for the quick recovery of the injured."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences regarding the loss of life and announced a compensation of 200,000 rupees. The PMO posted on X, stating, "The incident at a hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, is very tragic. My sympathies are with those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. Each family of the deceased will receive 200,000 rupees from PMNRF, and the injured will receive 50,000 rupees."