Ten patients died following a massive fire at the Trauma Care ICU of SCB Medical College in Cuttack, Odisha. Following the incident, several patients were safely evacuated.
A tragic incident occurred early Monday morning at the SCB Medical College and Hospital, located in the city of Cuttack, Odisha. Reports indicate that at least 10 patients lost their lives following a massive fire that broke out in the hospital’s Trauma Care ICU (Intensive Care Unit). The incident plunged the entire hospital complex into chaos.
It is reported that the fire spread so rapidly that several critically ill patients admitted to the ICU became trapped in the smoke. However, the hospital staff and the fire brigade team immediately launched relief and rescue operations, successfully saving the lives of many patients.
Fire Breaks Out Around 3 AM
According to reports, the incident occurred on Monday morning at approximately 3:00 AM. The fire broke out on the first floor of the Trauma Care ICU, located within the Medicine Department building of SCB Medical College. Within just a few minutes, the entire ICU was engulfed in smoke.
At the time, several patients in the ICU were on life support systems, making it difficult to evacuate them immediately. Due to the dense smoke and intense flames, several patients became trapped inside.
Fire Brigade and Hospital Staff Conduct Rescue Operation
Upon receiving information about the incident, the Fire Department and hospital staff immediately initiated relief operations. Rescue teams made efforts to evacuate patients trapped inside the ICU.
It is reported that three fire engines were dispatched to the scene. Firefighters brought the blaze under control after battling it for several hours.
During the rescue operation, dozens of patients were safely evacuated. Patients in critical condition were immediately shifted to the New Medicine ICU to ensure the continuity of their treatment.
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi Inspects the Scene of the Incident
Upon receiving information about the incident, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi immediately rushed to Cuttack and took stock of the situation at SCB Medical College. He met with the affected families and expressed his deepest condolences.
During this visit, the State Health Secretary, the District Collector of Cuttack, and the DCP were also present at the scene. The administration has ordered an inquiry into the mishap to ascertain the actual cause of the fire.
Investigation into the Cause of the Fire Continues
As of now, the exact cause of the Odisha hospital fire remains unclear. Preliminary indications suggest that the incident may have been triggered by a short circuit or a technical malfunction.
Authorities state that the precise cause of the tragedy will only be revealed once the investigation is complete. Meanwhile, in the wake of this tragic incident, questions are also being raised regarding fire safety systems in hospitals.