Bhubaneswar: A tragic fire at the Trauma Care Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of SCB Medical College and Hospital claimed the lives of 10 patients and left several hospital staff injured during rescue operations in the early hours of March 16.
The blaze reportedly broke out while critically ill patients were undergoing treatment, triggering panic within the emergency department. Multiple fire engines were rushed to the spot as hospital authorities and emergency responders launched a swift evacuation effort.
Evacuation Amid Chaos
Around 23 patients were shifted to other wards and ICUs as doctors, nurses and support staff worked urgently to rescue those trapped inside. Several staff members sustained injuries while attempting to move patients to safety.
The exact cause of the fire is yet to be officially confirmed, though preliminary assessments suggest a possible technical fault.
Government Announces Compensation
Following the incident, Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha, expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and announced ₹25 lakh compensation for the families of each deceased patient.
The Chief Minister also visited the hospital to review the situation and meet affected families.
Judicial Probe Ordered
In response to the tragedy, the state government has ordered a judicial inquiry to determine the cause of the fire and identify any lapses in safety protocols.
Officials said the probe will examine fire safety systems, emergency preparedness and hospital infrastructure to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents in the future.
Questions Over Safety
The incident has raised serious concerns over fire safety standards in major healthcare institutions, particularly in high-risk zones like ICUs where patients are often immobile and dependent on life-support systems.
Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry, as the state mourns one of the deadliest hospital fire incidents in recent times.
-OdishaAge
