A tragic fire incident at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, has shocked the entire state after at least 10 patients lost their lives during an emergency evacuation early Monday morning. The fire reportedly broke out inside the hospital’s Trauma Care Intensive Care Unit (ICU), forcing doctors, nurses, and emergency teams to rush patients out of the building.
The sudden blaze created panic inside one of Odisha’s largest government hospitals, where hundreds of patients were admitted for treatment. Authorities quickly launched rescue operations while firefighters worked to control the flames.
Following the tragedy, Mohan Charan Majhi, the Chief Minister of Odisha, ordered an immediate probe to determine the cause of the fire and possible safety lapses.
Fire Breaks Out in ICU Ward
According to preliminary reports, the fire started in the Trauma Care ICU ward of the hospital in the early hours of the morning. The unit had several critically ill patients who were dependent on life-support equipment and oxygen systems.
Hospital staff noticed smoke spreading through the ICU and immediately alerted the fire department and hospital authorities. Within minutes, emergency protocols were activated and medical staff began shifting patients to other wards.
However, the evacuation process proved extremely difficult. Many patients were in critical condition and required constant medical support. The combination of smoke, panic, and the urgency to move patients quickly created a chaotic situation.
Patients Die During Evacuation
Officials confirmed that 10 patients died during the evacuation process. Most of them were already critically ill and could not survive the sudden disruption of treatment and exposure to smoke.
Several patients were moved to nearby ICUs and other departments within the hospital complex. Doctors worked rapidly to stabilize those who had inhaled smoke or suffered complications during the emergency transfer.
Authorities are still verifying the identities of the deceased and informing their families.
The incident has left many relatives devastated, as they had trusted the hospital to provide safe treatment for their loved ones.
Firefighters and Staff Carry Out Rescue
Firefighters reached the hospital shortly after the alarm was raised. Multiple fire engines were deployed to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the hospital building.
Hospital staff played a crucial role in the rescue operation. Doctors, nurses, ward attendants, and security personnel helped move patients out of the ICU despite the dangerous conditions.
Several hospital workers reportedly suffered minor injuries and smoke inhalation while trying to save patients. Their quick action helped prevent a much larger disaster.
Within a short time, the fire was brought under control and the affected ward was sealed for investigation.
Suspected Electrical Short Circuit
Early reports suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit in the ICU area. Intensive care units contain large amounts of electrical equipment, including ventilators, monitors, and oxygen systems, which can increase the risk of fire if safety systems fail.
However, officials have stated that the exact cause of the incident will only be confirmed after a detailed investigation by fire safety experts and forensic teams.
The hospital administration has also begun reviewing its safety infrastructure to determine whether all fire protection systems were functioning properly at the time of the incident.
CM Mohan Majhi Orders Investigation
After receiving news of the tragedy, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives. He directed senior officials to immediately visit the hospital and assess the situation.
The Chief Minister also ordered a high-level probe to investigate the cause of the fire and identify any negligence or lapses in safety measures.
Government officials from the health department, fire services, and district administration have been assigned to conduct the inquiry. The investigation will examine fire safety systems, electrical infrastructure, and emergency response procedures within the hospital.
The state government has assured strict action against anyone found responsible.
Safety Concerns Raised After the Incident
The tragic incident has once again raised serious concerns about fire safety standards in hospitals across India. Medical facilities, particularly ICUs, rely heavily on electrical equipment and oxygen supply systems, which can increase fire risks if not properly maintained.
Experts say hospitals must conduct regular fire safety audits, install modern detection systems, and train staff to handle emergency evacuations effectively.
The tragedy at SCB Medical College has become a painful reminder of how critical safety preparedness is in healthcare facilities.
As investigations continue, families of the victims and citizens across Odisha are demanding answers and stronger safety measures to ensure that such incidents never happen again.
