Daijiworld Media Network - Cuttack
Cuttack, Mar 16: At least 10 patients were killed and 11 hospital staff injured after a massive fire broke out at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha early on Monday.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the blaze erupted in the trauma care unit around 3 am and is suspected to have been triggered by a short circuit in the ICU’s air conditioning system or other medical equipment. The state government has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident.
According to preliminary information, the fire broke out on the first floor of the trauma care unit where 23 patients were undergoing treatment. Seven patients initially died inside the ward before rescue operations began, while three others later succumbed after inhaling smoke.
Within minutes, thick smoke engulfed the ICU ward, triggering panic among patients and hospital staff. Despite swift action by hospital authorities and fire personnel to evacuate those admitted, the heavy smoke and intensity of the blaze proved fatal for several patients who were already in critical condition.
Three fire tenders were pressed into service and battled the flames for hours before bringing the situation under control. Several patients were rescued and shifted to other wards for continued medical support.
Following the tragedy, Majhi rushed to the hospital to assess the situation and met with the families of the victims as well as the injured. He announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives.
“There were 23 patients admitted to the ward. Seven people initially died inside the ward before the rescue operation. Three others later died due to inhalation of smoke after they were rescued. A total of 10 people have died,” the chief minister told reporters.
Majhi also said that 11 medical personnel who participated in the rescue efforts suffered injuries and are currently undergoing treatment in the hospital.
Senior officials including Odisha health secretary Aswathy S, Cuttack district collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde and deputy commissioner of police Rishikesh Khilari supervised the rescue operations.
Authorities suspect an electrical short circuit in the ICU’s air conditioning system or medical equipment may have triggered the fire. A high-level probe has been ordered to determine the exact cause and examine possible lapses in fire safety protocols.
Established in 1944, SCB Medical College and Hospital is one of the oldest and largest government medical institutions in eastern India and serves as the main referral hospital for patients from across Odisha and neighbouring regions.