10 patients die in ICU fire at SCB Medical College in Cuttack

Bhubaneswar: A devastating fire accident at the intensive care unit of SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, claimed the lives of at least 10 patients early Monday morning, triggering shock and grief across the state. The incident occurred in the Trauma Care ICU where critically ill patients were undergoing treatment.

According to officials, the fire reportedly broke out between 2.30 am and 3.00 am, causing panic inside the hospital building. Thick smoke quickly filled the ICU and adjoining wards, making it extremely difficult for patients and hospital staff to escape.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi rushed to the hospital soon after receiving information about the incident. Speaking to reporters, he confirmed that at least 10 patients had died in the tragedy.

“Ten patients have died in the incident. Prima facie it appears that the fire might have been caused due to a short circuit,” the Chief Minister said while interacting with the media at the hospital premises.

Officials said a total of 23 patients were admitted in the Trauma Care ICU and nearby wards at the time of the incident. Of the 10 deceased, seven patients died on the spot due to severe burn injuries or suffocation caused by smoke. Three more patients succumbed during rescue and evacuation efforts.

During the operation to rescue the patients, several hospital staff members also suffered injuries. According to preliminary reports, around 11 hospital personnel were injured while trying to evacuate patients and control the situation.

Fire and emergency service personnel rushed to the hospital soon after receiving the alert and launched rescue operations. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after battling the flames for some time. Patients from the affected ICU and nearby wards were shifted to safer areas within the hospital.

Chief Minister Majhi stated that the government has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident to determine the exact cause of the fire and identify any lapses in safety measures.

“I have directed the Director General of Fire Services to conduct an immediate investigation and submit a detailed report. After the judicial inquiry report is received, strict action will be taken against those found responsible,” he said.

The Chief Minister also instructed health officials to ensure proper medical care for injured patients and hospital staff. Meanwhile, the state government has announced compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of each deceased victim.

The tragic incident has raised serious concerns about fire safety standards in government hospitals, with authorities expected to review emergency preparedness and infrastructure safety in major healthcare institutions across the state.