Bhubaneswar, March 16 – In a tragic incident, at least 10 patients died and several others sustained serious burn injuries after a major fire broke out in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the trauma care center at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, in the early hours of Monday.
According to sources, the fire erupted around 2:30 AM to 3:00 AM due to a suspected electrical short circuit.
After meeting with the injured patients at the hospital and assessing the situation, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Monday that each of the families of the deceased would receive a compensation of Rs 25 lakh.
He also ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident and assured strict action against anyone found negligent in their duty that led to the fire.
Speaking to the media, Chief Minister Majhi said, “A few hours ago, a major fire broke out in the trauma care unit of SCB Medical College and Hospital due to a suspected short circuit. As a result, patients undergoing treatment in the Trauma Care ICU, an adjoining ICU, and ward were affected.
"After the fire broke out, 23 patients undergoing treatment on the first floor of the Trauma Care ICU were moved to safer locations. Seven critically ill patients died during the relocation process, while three others succumbed after being moved to other ICUs. This is very unfortunate."
He offered condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed to Lord Jagannath for the speedy recovery of the injured. Majhi also informed that he had instructed the Health Department to ensure advanced treatment for those who sustained severe injuries and are currently undergoing treatment in other ICUs and wards.
The Chief Minister further noted that as many as 11 hospital staff members, including security personnel, risked their lives to help rescue the patients. Many of them also sustained injuries due to smoke inhalation and flames during the relocation of patients, but they are now stable and undergoing treatment in a ward on the ground floor.
"After our government came to power, I had previously directed the department to inspect and take action regarding fire safety measures at all hospitals across the state. In the current budget for 2025–26, we have allocated Rs 320 crore for strengthening fire safety measures, and the work is being carried out on a war footing.
"In the coming financial year 2026–27, Rs 400 crore has been allocated for this purpose,” the Chief Minister said.
Chief Minister Majhi instructed officials of all departments to ensure the installation of advanced fire-extinguishing systems in hospitals across the state.
"I have instructed the Director General of the Odisha Fire and Emergency Services (Sudhanshu Sarangi) to personally inspect the fire safety measures and ensure compliance at SCB Medical College and Hospital.
"I have also ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident. If the fire is found to have resulted from any negligence, the government will take strict action after receiving the judicial inquiry report,” he said.